Registration Now Open
The Play For Max Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Max Akerson.
Max was a 7th grader in Jan 2022 when he was diagnosed with pediatric hepatocellular carcinoma. Otherwise known as liver cancer which acts very differently than the more common adult form. He was an active kid playing hockey as a goalie, football, lacrosse and summer cdaa soccer. He loved all sports and even got to try house basketball in 9th grade which he loved. Sports were so vital to him: they were a mental break from his cancer journey, time with friends, exercise and a chance to be “normal”.
He passed away November of 2024 after finishing his sophomore year of high school football.
The Play For Max Foundation was set up to honor his dedication to sports, gathering friends, his hard work and perseverance. In our first year, we gave 4 scholarships to seniors (open now to 2026 grads), sponsored several high school sports teams, organized a Lego drive for his birthday and donated to a cancer researcher who is studying his type of cancer. We would love to do more and need your help to continue.
Max’s unwavering strength, kindness, and passion for both sports and helping others continue to inspire us every day. In his memory, we are committed to funding rare pediatric cancer research and supporting youth athletics and education—endeavours that were deeply meaningful to him. Through our efforts, we strive to give hope, opportunity, and a fighting chance to those facing life’s toughest challenges.
Join us in making a difference and keeping Max’s spirit alive.
