Ravens’ coaches game to benefit local charities
On the ice, the Richmond Ravens are proven winners. But in its visionary statement, B.C.’s minor hockey association of the year strives to be much more. And this holiday season one of its goals is to help those less fortunate.
Committed to modeling leadership behaviors that set an examples for others to follow, its coaches—led by Pewee C1 bench boss Adam Carmichael—are joining forces to do just that. This Saturday, from 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., the majority of Raven mentors will gather at Minoru Arenas for the Coaches Charity Game. There is certain to be the usual good-natured ribbing among the participants, but first and foremost this game is about supporting others in need. The primary goal is to help raise funds and food for the Richmond Food Bank, with most needed being staple items like canned meat, peanut butter, soups, canned fish, cereals and diapers. But any donations would be welcome.
“It’’s always a good cause to support the food bank, and when I put the idea forward for a coaches’ game it started a domino effect,” said Carmichael. “A bunch of sponsors came aboard, and we’re estimating 200 to 300 of the players are going to come out for the game.”
The game will also benefit the Richmond Christmas Fund, with admission to the game being a cash donation or an unwrapped toy, game or book.
Another highlight of the evening will be a huge puck toss. Pucks can be purchased at the game for $1, with proceeds going to the charities.
“We really want to make this a fun, family event,” said Carmichael, who adds the association’s referee-in-chief Casey Rodusek will have some assistance overseeing the Red versus White game from University of B.C. head coach Milan Dragicevic, who’ll be a guest referee.
The Raven players attending the game are also expected to wear either their red or white jerseys, signifying which side they’re cheering for in the Coaches Charity Game.
“This is an awesome opportunity to give back to the community and have some fun doing it, and to remember what Christmas is all about,” said Patti Martin, president of the Richmond Ravens. “We’re blessed at our association with an incredible group of volunteers and Adam is a perfect example of that.”
Volunteer Richmond executive director Elizabeth Specht, whose group oversees the non-profit Richmond Christmas Fund Society, said “it’s going to be a wonderful time.”
Also a hockey mom, Specht said the game provides the Raven coaches with a great opportunity to show leadership to the young players.
“It’s about giving, and community involvement,” she said. “And this is also an opportunity to extend the message of (the services) available in our community.”
COMMENTS
Let's keep comments:
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters.
We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.