The Turco Family
By Alicia Wanek
Achieving success in professional sports demands unparalleled commitment. Marty Turco, the former goalie for the Dallas Stars, has earned the reputation of being “the smartest goalie in the National Hockey League.” However, his passion for hockey pales in comparison to his deep love for his wonderful family and the city that has welcomed him wholeheartedly.
Originating from Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, Canada, it’s only natural that Marty took up hockey at a young age. It was in high school that he first crossed paths with his now-wife, Kelly, and the couple exchanged vows in 2000. They are the proud parents of three children: Hailey, now 15; Katelyn, who is 13; and 9-year-old Finley. Kelly accompanied Marty from Canada to the University of Michigan, where they both focused on education, then moved to Dallas when Marty signed with the Stars.
During his college years at Michigan, Marty embarked on a lifelong journey of community service. His hockey team frequently visited the local children’s hospital, bringing joy to those unable to attend games. “I participated because it felt right,” Marty reflects, “but I didn’t truly grasp the significance of those actions back then.”
Since then, he and Kelly have made a positive impact around Dallas, instilling in their children the importance of philanthropy. “We’re simply trying to create positive change… Why not seize the chance to enhance your community and surroundings?” Marty emphasizes. A particular cause close to their hearts is the NHL Stick with Reading initiative, which has impacted over 40,000 students in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since its launch. As a spokesperson for the program, Marty has visited numerous schools, motivating children to reach their reading goals. He particularly cherishes the feedback from educators highlighting how young boys are becoming more enthusiastic about reading thanks to positive male influences.
Currently, Marty’s professional endeavors enable him to leave his mark as well. Serving as the Director of Corporate Development for the Dallas Stars, he channels his passion for the team into securing new sponsorships and acting as a team ambassador at the arena. Additionally, his role as president of the C5 Youth Foundation of Texas allows him and Kelly to pursue their mission of uplifting local youth. The foundation targets 8th graders from underprivileged backgrounds who display great potential, guiding them through high school with the goal of inspiring personal success and preparing them for future leadership. Remarkably, the program boasts a 100% success rate, with every participant either graduating from high school or enlisting in the military.
Throughout their journey, Kelly notes that they have involved their children in various charitable initiatives from an early age. Their family has made it a tradition to request donations instead of gifts for birthdays, engage in fundraising events, serve meals at soup kitchens, and host Bingo nights at retirement homes. Now that their children are older, Kelly observes, “They’re the ones presenting us with opportunities.” Recently, Hailey expressed her desire to delay her trip to the family’s lake house in Canada to volunteer at a summer vacation Bible school for underprivileged children. Kelly and Marty recognized the importance of this to her and adjusted their plans so Marty could support Hailey while the rest of the family visited later. “My parents have always taught me to prioritize others,” Hailey reflects.
Marty shares a profound quote from local basketball legend, Nancy Lieberman: “When you’re young, you learn; when you’re playing, you earn; when you retire, you return.” One poignant story Marty shared resonated strongly with me—a heartfelt letter he received from a woman who sought an autograph for her ailing father. Instead of simply mailing an autographed photo, Marty took the time to visit him at home, maintaining contact until the man passed away the day before our interview. This kind of generous spirit, carried out quietly and without the desire for recognition, embodies the essence of Lieberman’s words and reveals a depth to a man who is much more than just an athletic icon.
