Former Spirit Star Zayne Parekh Visits Saginaw During NHL Break

TV5 sports team previews upcoming I-75 Divide Cup matchup

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight, TV5 caught up with former Saginaw Spirit hockey player Zayne Parekh, who is now a rookie with the Calgary Flames in the NHL. Parekh was back visiting the Spirit during the NHL's Olympic break. The sports team also previewed the upcoming I-75 Divide Cup matchup.

Why it matters

The Spirit Spotlight series provides fans with an inside look at the Saginaw Spirit hockey team and its players, both current and former. Parekh's return to Saginaw during his NHL break highlights the continued connection between players and the community. The I-75 Divide Cup is an important annual matchup between regional rivals.

The details

Zayne Parekh played for the Saginaw Spirit junior hockey team before being drafted by the Calgary Flames and making his NHL debut this season. During the NHL's Olympic break, Parekh returned to Saginaw to visit his former team. The TV5 sports team also previewed the upcoming I-75 Divide Cup matchup, an annual hockey game between the Spirit and their regional rival.

  • Zayne Parekh visited the Saginaw Spirit during the NHL's Olympic break in February 2026.

The players

Zayne Parekh

A former Saginaw Spirit hockey player who is now a rookie with the Calgary Flames in the NHL.

Saginaw Spirit

A junior hockey team based in Saginaw, Michigan.

Calgary Flames

A professional ice hockey team based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and a member of the National Hockey League (NHL).

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What they’re saying

“It was great to be back in Saginaw and see the guys. The Spirit will always have a special place in my heart.”

— Zayne Parekh (WNEM Digital)

What’s next

The I-75 Divide Cup matchup between the Saginaw Spirit and their regional rival will take place on Wednesday night.

The takeaway

This episode of Spirit Spotlight showcases the continued connection between Saginaw Spirit players and the local community, even as they move on to professional careers in the NHL.