MANITOUWADGE — The Manitouwadge Copper Kings alumni took to the ice on Saturday in their 14th annual hockey game.
Team Drake (white jerseys) played hard with skill and enthusiasm, but Team Kevin dominated the ice, winning the game with an impressive score of 9-4. The young folk got in on the action too; 14 boys and girls of the Copper Kings Future Stars held a fast action game between periods, showing off their developing skills on skates.
Besides watching the regular action on the ice, spectators could indulge in hot chocolate, burgers, hot dogs, popcorn and other treats from the canteen and kiosk. For a chance to bring home an early Christmas present, folks could spend a few dollars on the 50/50 tickets, contests, and an array of silent auction items. The organizers staged a ‘Chuck-a-Puck’ contest, where, for a $5 donation, a puck was tossed at the blue circle at center ice. The closest puck to the target won half of the $860 raised in the contest. The silent auction, which featured prizes and gifts ranging from locally made fur hats and hand-sewn quilts to kitchen gadgets and signed hockey jerseys, were all generously donated by local businesses and individuals.
All proceeds from Saturday’s event go to the Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group. This non-profit organization was formed in 2007 by a team of dedicated individuals whose lives have been touched by cancer in various ways. Their goal is to assist local cancer patients to help pay for a variety of expenses, such as prosthesis, prescription medications (when not covered by drug plans), oxygen, travel, accommodations, and other costs that the Northern Ontario Travel Grant does not adequately fund.
The alumni game, now in its 14th year, was originally initiated by Toby Mattson as a fundraiser for the organization. Together, they have raised thousands of dollars to support many local folks in their fight against cancer. This year’s tournament was dedicated to the memory of Betty Oksanen, one of the founding members of the MCAG, who passed away earlier this year.
The Manitouwadge Cancer Assistance Group would like to thank the players of all ages, the support staff, volunteers, businesses, and other sponsors for all their hard work, dedication, and generosity. Without you, this event would not be possible.
To help support this cause, contact any member of the MGAC or eTransfer your donation to ManitouwadgeCAG@gmail.com