Last Updated on November 11, 2026 by Bernald Sanders
Sebastian Cossa is a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender who plays for the Utah Mammoth in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on November 21, 2002, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, he grew up in Fort McMurray, Alberta, where his family’s encouragement helped him pursue a career in professional hockey.
Sebastian Cossa is married to Emerson Cossa, his longtime girlfriend whom he met during his teenage years. His parents are Gianni Cossa and Sandra “Sandie” Cossa, and he has an older brother named Nicholas Cossa. The family also shares a remarkable story of surviving the devastating 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire.
Although Cossa’s marriage, parents, and brother are publicly documented, there is no reliable confirmation that he and his wife have children.
Sebastian Cossa’s Wife: Who Is Emerson Cossa?
Sebastian Cossa’s wife is Emerson Cossa, his longtime romantic partner and childhood sweetheart.
Emerson grew up in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada, where she attended school and participated in several sports during her childhood.
She played soccer, practiced figure skating, and competed in volleyball through school and club programs.
Emerson has two sisters, one older and one younger, according to an interview published by the Grand Rapids Griffins on February 24, 2025.
Although her marriage to Sebastian is publicly confirmed, further details about her professional occupation and educational qualifications remain relatively private.
How Did Sebastian Cossa Meet Emerson?
Sebastian Cossa and Emerson first met when they were approximately 13 years old.
In her February 2025 interview with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Emerson explained that they attended the same school in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.
They met during ninth grade and shared several classes, including a computer technology class.
Emerson recalled that she initially thought Sebastian was funny but did not immediately develop romantic feelings for him.
They became better acquainted through mutual friends.
The couple eventually began dating shortly before Emerson’s sixteenth birthday, when they were in eleventh grade.
Their relationship developed through double dates with friends and shared experiences during their teenage years.
Sebastian and Emerson’s Long-Distance Relationship
As Sebastian progressed through competitive hockey, maintaining the relationship required considerable commitment.
During his teenage years, he lived with a host family in Fort Saskatchewan while playing elite minor hockey.
Emerson attended his games and supported his development.
When Sebastian joined the Edmonton Oil Kings in the Western Hockey League, the distance between them remained manageable.
Edmonton was approximately 30 minutes from Emerson’s hometown, allowing them to visit one another regularly.
However, their situation became more complicated after Sebastian was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.
His professional career required him to move between different American cities, while Emerson continued her own commitments in Canada.
Despite these challenges, they maintained their relationship and eventually established a home together.
When Did Sebastian Cossa Get Married?
Sebastian Cossa and Emerson married during a small family ceremony.
In an interview published on February 24, 2025, Emerson stated that they had married the previous summer, placing their wedding in summer 2024.
The ceremony took place in the backyard of Emerson’s parents’ home in Alberta.
Rather than organizing a large celebration, the couple wanted a private event surrounded by their closest relatives.
Approximately 17 people attended, including their parents, siblings, and grandparents.
After the ceremony, the family gathered for dinner.
Emerson explained that the wedding location was especially meaningful because she and Sebastian had spent considerable time there throughout their relationship.
Although a later Utah Mammoth biography refers to the wedding as taking place in summer 2025, Emerson’s firsthand February 2025 account confirms that they were already married by then.
The exact wedding date has not been independently established.
Why Did Sebastian and Emerson Decide to Marry?
The couple’s decision to marry was influenced partly by the challenges of maintaining a relationship across the United States–Canada border.
When Sebastian began playing professionally in the United States, Emerson experienced difficulties remaining with him for extended periods because of immigration rules.
During his time with the Toledo Walleye and Grand Rapids Griffins, she initially divided her time between Canada and the United States.
They also adopted a dog, creating additional complications when traveling between countries.
According to Emerson’s 2025 interview, the couple had already discussed marriage when they decided to move forward with their plans.
Marrying helped them address some of the uncertainty surrounding their ability to live together while Sebastian pursued professional hockey.
Emerson Cossa’s Support for Her Husband
Emerson has supported Sebastian throughout his transition from junior hockey to professional competition.
She attended many of his games with the Edmonton Oil Kings and continued following his career after he joined the Detroit Red Wings organization.
In February 2025, she explained that Sebastian was generally calm and did not allow disappointing performances to affect his behavior at home.
She described their relationship as a close friendship built on mutual understanding.
Emerson also developed friendships with other hockey players’ partners while living in Grand Rapids.
These connections helped her adjust to the demands of professional hockey, including travel schedules and frequent uncertainty about future assignments.
Does Sebastian Cossa Have Children?
There is no publicly verified information confirming that Sebastian Cossa has children.
Although his marriage to Emerson is documented by official hockey organizations, reliable reporting has not identified any sons or daughters.
In interviews published during 2025 and 2026, the couple discussed their relationship, family members, and pet dog without announcing the birth of a child.
Consequently, there is no reliable basis for identifying Sebastian as a father.
Sebastian and Emerson Cossa’s Dog
Sebastian and Emerson share a dog named Hank.
Emerson confirmed the dog’s name in her February 2025 interview with the Grand Rapids Griffins.
The couple adopted Hank during Sebastian’s first professional season with the Toledo Walleye.
Hank became an important part of their everyday routine.
Emerson frequently took him on walks and explored local parks and trails while Sebastian attended practices and games.
In a July 2026 interview with the Deseret News, Sebastian described their dog as a Bernedoodle.
Sebastian Cossa’s Parents
Sebastian Cossa was born to Gianni Cossa and Sandra Cossa, who raised him and his older brother Nicholas in Canada.
His mother is also referred to as Sandie Cossa in interviews.
Their identities are confirmed in official reporting published by the Edmonton Oil Kings, Grand Rapids Griffins, and Utah Mammoth.
Both parents played important roles in supporting Sebastian’s athletic development.
Sebastian Cossa’s Father: Gianni Cossa
Gianni Cossa is Sebastian Cossa’s father.
He worked as an occupational health and safety professional, according to a family profile published by the Grand Rapids Griffins in October 2024.
Originally living with his family in the Hamilton area of Ontario, Gianni relocated to Fort McMurray, Alberta, because of employment opportunities connected to the oil sands industry.
The move introduced Sebastian to the community where he would spend most of his childhood.
Although Gianni did not play competitive hockey growing up, he became actively involved in supporting his sons’ interest in skating.
How Gianni Cossa Supported Sebastian’s Hockey Career
Gianni learned to skate when he was approximately 42 years old.
He subsequently became involved in youth hockey as a referee.
Despite having limited personal experience playing the sport, he frequently offered advice to Sebastian during his early years as a goaltender.
In an October 2024 interview with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Sebastian humorously recalled that his father encouraged him to remain standing rather than dropping to the ice to make saves.
Gianni’s advice reflected the traditional goaltending styles associated with previous generations of professional hockey.
Although Sebastian eventually developed a modern goaltending technique, he appreciated his father’s involvement.
Gianni continued supporting him as he progressed through minor hockey, junior competition, and the professional leagues.
Sebastian Cossa’s Mother: Sandra “Sandie” Cossa
Sandra Cossa, also known as Sandie, is Sebastian Cossa’s mother.
She raised Sebastian and Nicholas alongside her husband Gianni in Fort McMurray.
Sandra played an especially important role in providing emotional and practical support during Sebastian’s childhood.
In his October 2024 interview with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Sebastian explained that his mother had been one of the most influential people in his life.
He credited her with providing the encouragement, advice, and everyday assistance needed to pursue professional hockey.
Although details about her professional occupation are not widely documented, her importance to Sebastian’s development is well established.
Sandra Cossa’s Support During Difficult Times
One memorable example of Sandra’s support occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
After the Western Hockey League suspended its season, Sebastian returned to Fort McMurray.
He spent an extended period at home with his parents after several years of living away from them for hockey.
In a July 2020 interview with the Edmonton Oil Kings, Sebastian joked that his mother’s cooking was one of the best parts of returning home.
He explained that Sandra prepared several meals for him each day as he continued training.
The experience allowed him to reconnect with his parents after years of demanding hockey schedules.
Sebastian Cossa’s Siblings
Sebastian Cossa has one publicly documented older brother, Nicholas Cossa.
Their relationship is confirmed in official biographies published by the Edmonton Oil Kings and Utah Mammoth.
Nicholas Cossa – Sebastian Cossa’s Older Brother
Nicholas Cossa is Sebastian Cossa’s older brother.
He was born before Sebastian, and the two grew up together in Hamilton, Ontario, before their family moved to Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Both brothers developed an early interest in ice skating.
According to the Grand Rapids Griffins, Sebastian and Nicholas began spending time on the ice during childhood, even though their father had not yet learned to skate.
Living in Fort McMurray provided opportunities for outdoor activities and organized sports.
Both boys experienced the challenges associated with growing up in a northern Canadian community far from major metropolitan centers.
Although Nicholas’s relationship with Sebastian is confirmed, reliable reporting provides limited information about his occupation, education, and personal life.
Sebastian and Nicholas Cossa’s Childhood
Sebastian and Nicholas shared important childhood experiences, including their family’s relocation from Ontario to Alberta.
They also experienced the devastating Fort McMurray wildfire in May 2016.
During the emergency, both brothers evacuated alongside their parents.
The family temporarily lived with relatives while waiting for conditions in Fort McMurray to improve.
The experience became an important part of Sebastian’s personal history and strengthened his appreciation for family support.
Does Sebastian Cossa Have a Sister?
No sister has been identified in the reliable hockey biographies reviewed.
Official reporting consistently identifies Nicholas as Sebastian’s older brother without documenting any additional siblings.
However, Emerson Cossa has two sisters, making Sebastian a brother-in-law through marriage.
The names of Emerson’s sisters have not been independently established through the sources reviewed.
Sebastian Cossa’s Grandfather and Italian Heritage
Sebastian Cossa has Italian family ancestry.
His late grandfather, Pietro Cossa, emigrated from the Italian island of Sardinia.
According to the Grand Rapids Griffins’ October 2024 family profile, Pietro initially moved to Germany, where he worked for approximately six years.
He subsequently immigrated to Canada.
Pietro found employment as a miner in the Red Lake area of northern Ontario before eventually settling his family in Sarnia, Ontario.
His story reflects the family’s history of migration and hard work across several generations.
Sebastian’s parents later continued that tradition of relocating for employment opportunities when they moved from Ontario to Alberta.
How Sebastian Cossa’s Family Survived the 2016 Fort McMurray Wildfire
One of the most significant events in Sebastian Cossa’s childhood occurred in May 2016.
At the time, Sebastian was 13 years old and living with his parents and older brother in Fort McMurray.
A massive wildfire spread toward the community, forcing approximately 88,000 residents to evacuate.
In a July 2020 interview published by the Edmonton Oil Kings, Sebastian recalled seeing heavy smoke while traveling with his mother.
He became increasingly concerned that the family might need to leave their home.
Within days, the situation deteriorated.
When authorities ordered the evacuation, Gianni, Sandra, Sebastian, and Nicholas packed their belongings and attempted to escape the city.
Initially, they considered traveling north, but road closures forced them to head south toward Edmonton.
The normally manageable journey became an overnight trip because thousands of vehicles were attempting to leave simultaneously.
After reaching safety, the family stayed with relatives in Edmonton and Calgary.
They were unable to return to Fort McMurray for nearly three months.
Fortunately, their home survived the wildfire, although it suffered smoke damage.
Sebastian later explained that the flames had approached within approximately two blocks of the property.
During their displacement, he briefly attended Edge School near Calgary, which offered assistance to young athletes affected by the disaster.
The experience taught him to appreciate his family and the importance of supporting one another during difficult circumstances.
The Cossa Family and the 2020 Fort McMurray Flood
Four years after the wildfire, the Cossa family faced another emergency.
In April 2020, an ice jam caused severe flooding along the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers near Fort McMurray.
The event affected thousands of residents and forced evacuations in parts of the community.
Sebastian had recently returned home because the COVID-19 pandemic had interrupted his junior hockey season.
Although their neighborhood remained relatively safe, the family worried that flooding could block transportation routes and isolate residents.
Fortunately, their home again avoided major damage.
The experience reinforced the family’s appreciation for spending time together after years of uncertainty.
How Sebastian Cossa’s Parents Influenced His Hockey Career
Sebastian Cossa began skating during childhood and started playing as a goaltender when he was approximately seven or eight years old.
His parents encouraged him to pursue sports, including hockey and football.
As a young athlete, Sebastian played football as a center and linebacker before concentrating on ice hockey.
He eventually became interested in the playing style of Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price.
Although his family supported the Toronto Maple Leafs, Sebastian considered Price his favorite goalie.
He spent hours watching videos of Price’s movements, positioning, and technique.
As he developed, his parents supported opportunities for him to compete at higher levels.
At approximately 13 years old, Sebastian moved to Fort Saskatchewan to play elite minor hockey while living with a host family.
Although the arrangement required him to spend time away from home, his parents continued supporting his development.
He later joined the Edmonton Oil Kings of the Western Hockey League, becoming one of Canada’s most promising young goaltenders.
Sebastian Cossa’s NHL Draft and Professional Career
Sebastian Cossa played three seasons with the Edmonton Oil Kings from 2019 to 2022.
During the shortened 2020–21 WHL season, he posted a 17-1-0-1 record, a 1.57 goals-against average, and a .941 save percentage.
His performances established him as one of the leading goaltending prospects eligible for the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.
On July 23, 2021, the Detroit Red Wings selected Cossa in the first round, 15th overall.
He signed a three-year entry-level contract with Detroit in August 2021.
Following the draft, Cossa publicly thanked his family, coaches, and the Edmonton Oil Kings organization for supporting his career.
In 2022, he helped Edmonton win the Western Hockey League championship.
He subsequently began his professional career with the Toledo Walleye in the ECHL.
After spending time in Toledo, he became a regular member of the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League.
Cossa made his NHL debut with Detroit on December 9, 2024, against the Buffalo Sabres.
He entered the game in relief and earned his first NHL victory.
Sebastian Cossa’s Marriage and Move to Utah
During his years in the Detroit organization, Sebastian and Emerson developed their life together while managing the demands of professional hockey.
They married and continued living in Michigan while Sebastian played for the Grand Rapids Griffins.
In June 2026, the Utah Mammoth acquired Cossa from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for a first-round draft pick.
On June 30, 2026, Utah announced that he had signed a two-year contract with an average annual value of $2 million.
The move represented an important new opportunity for Sebastian and Emerson.
In an interview published by the Deseret News in July 2026, Cossa discussed his excitement about joining Utah and exploring the surrounding area with his wife and their dog.
He expressed interest in hiking, fishing, and golfing during his time away from the rink.
On October 3, 2026, Cossa made his Utah Mammoth debut against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
It was also his first NHL start.
He helped Utah secure a 4–1 victory, making 17 saves on 18 shots.
The performance marked another important milestone in a career made possible by years of family encouragement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sebastian Cossa’s Family
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s girlfriend?
Sebastian Cossa’s longtime girlfriend was Emerson, whom he met during his teenage years in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. The couple subsequently married.
Is Sebastian Cossa married?
Yes. Sebastian Cossa is married to Emerson Cossa, his longtime partner and childhood sweetheart.
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s wife?
His wife is Emerson Cossa. They met in ninth grade, began dating during their teenage years, and married in a small backyard ceremony.
When did Sebastian Cossa get married?
In a February 2025 interview with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Emerson said they married the previous summer, indicating summer 2024. A later Utah Mammoth article gives a different implied year, so the exact date should be treated cautiously.
Does Sebastian Cossa have children?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Sebastian Cossa and his wife have children.
Who are Sebastian Cossa’s parents?
His parents are Gianni Cossa and Sandra Cossa, who raised him and his older brother in Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s father?
His father is Gianni Cossa, who worked in occupational health and safety and helped support Sebastian’s early hockey development.
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s mother?
His mother is Sandra Cossa, also called Sandie. Sebastian has repeatedly credited her with providing essential encouragement and support throughout his career.
How many siblings does Sebastian Cossa have?
Sebastian Cossa has one publicly confirmed sibling, his older brother Nicholas Cossa.
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s brother?
His older brother is Nicholas Cossa, who grew up alongside Sebastian in Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Does Sebastian Cossa have a sister?
No sister has been publicly documented in official hockey reporting. His wife Emerson, however, has two sisters.
Where is Sebastian Cossa’s family from?
Sebastian was born in Hamilton, Ontario, before his family moved to Fort McMurray, Alberta. His extended family also has Italian roots in Sardinia.
Did Sebastian Cossa’s family survive the Fort McMurray wildfire?
Yes. Sebastian, his parents, and his brother evacuated during the May 2016 wildfire and temporarily lived with relatives. Their house survived, although it suffered smoke damage.
Who is Sebastian Cossa’s grandfather?
His late grandfather Pietro Cossa emigrated from Sardinia to Germany before moving to Canada, where he worked as a miner.
What is Sebastian Cossa’s dog’s name?
Sebastian and Emerson have a dog named Hank, identified as a Bernedoodle.
Living and breathing ice hockey, Bernald Sanders delivers comprehensive coverage of the NHL season from puck drop to the Stanley Cup Finals. He specializes in tactical breakdowns, trade analysis, power-play strategies, and tracking rising draft prospects. Bernald turns fast-paced on-ice action into clear, sharp insights for hockey fans around the globe.
