“The more things change, the more they stay the same.”
Since its incorporation in 1913, Leaside has constantly been evolving and transforming. But in many, many ways, Leaside has remained the same.
It’s always been a neighbourhood where families thrive, where nature and city life coexist harmoniously and where there’s a sense of strong community spirit.
Since the first issue of Leaside Life published in December 2011, the neighbourhood’s changes and spirit have consistently featured in the fascinating stories of people, businesses, events, and more.
Case in point: The cover of the second issue of Leaside Life featured a photo of a dad and son, Dave and Robby Daga. Posing together in a photo for a story about local hockey, the Dagas embodied the spirit of family and community – and local hockey.
Understandably, the lives of the two have changed in many ways over the past 13 years. Yet their love of Leaside, the community they’ve called home for so many years, and their love of hockey have remained steadfast.
So where are they now?
Robby, who was a six-year-old Bessborough student in the original photo, is now a 19-year-old second-year student studying financial mathematics and business administration at Laurier University.
Dad Dave (who has barely aged!) was and continues to be a globally recognized and highly respected writer and creative director who has contributed to the success of Canada’s largest and best-known brands.
After all this time, they still call Leaside home, they value the spirit of the community, and they both continue to play hockey.
Dave coached Robby and his teams from the time his son was in hockey school at the age of four until his final year of GTHL eligibility at age 17.
He also currently plays hockey with men his age. When he recently brought Robby to play with them, Dave laughs, admitting that “Robby danced around them.”
Dave has always appreciated all that Leaside has offered him and his family, including the good fortune of being able to walk to so many amenities.
Robby asserts that “Leaside is home.” Making enduring friendships through school and sports in the neighbourhood, he notes that Leaside is still “where we all meet up again when we’re not at university.”
While Leaside and its residents continue to evolve, Dave and Robby Daga are standout examples of the values and spirit that stand the test of time in our community.
