Pucks for Purpose Puts the 'Fun' in Fundraiser for Cancer and Special Olympics

There's nothing that ignites the StFX community's passion quite like a thrilling sporting event. The roar of the crowd, the electric energy in the air, and the collective joy when a goal is scored. Now, picture taking that excitement and using it for something more than just the game, going beyond the ice rink. Enter "Pucks for Purpose," a charity hockey tournament that not only celebrates the love for the game but also harnesses the power of unity for a greater cause. Each play isn't just about winning; it's about making a real difference in the community.

Pucks for Purpose is a new initiative within the StFX community, dedicated to backing the Canadian Cancer Society and Motionball, an organization focused on promoting awareness for the Special Olympics. The team has been directly working with those affected by cancer to “share their inspiring stories,” hoping to educate the community on the disease’s sweeping impact. On March 13th in the Keating Centre business students coached by Mark MacIssaac will face off against arts and science students coached by Gerrad Marangoni to determine which campus faculty is better at hockey. All students are encouraged to buy tickets and come to support their faculties on the day of the tournament. The Pucks for Purpose team hope to sell out the arena’s 1500-person capacity.

Co-Chairs Danny Larsen and Luke White, along with their team, have been actively engaging the community and beyond to garner support for the upcoming event. Their marketing efforts are focused on generating enthusiasm among St FX students and spreading awareness about the event's charitable causes. Beyond campus, the town of Antigonish has rallied behind Pucks for Purpose, with local businesses like Burnside Brewing, Gabriels Pizza, Sport Chek, Main Street Café, and the Golden X Inn contributing in-kind donations. Danny Larsen emphasizes the significance of partnering with both local businesses and the St FX community to raise funds and awareness for the tournament. Any possible contribution to the tournament is appreciated. There is also growing interest from other local establishments eager to collaborate with Pucks for Purpose and demonstrate their support. The broader the event's reach, the greater the potential for raising funds for its impactful causes.

A similar event which is hosted annually at Queen’s university called the “Cure Cancer Classic” has most recently “raised 400,000 dollars for the Canadian cancer society and sold out an OHL stadium with the capacity of 5,000 seats.” Pucks for Purpose “hopes to have a similar fundraising total and attendance in upcoming years.” The organizers also hope to plan a charity golf tournament called “Putts for Purpose.” By diversifying their fundraising initiatives, such as the proposed golf tournament, Pucks for Purpose seeks to engage a broader audience and further contribute to the commendable causes of the organization.

So how can members of the St FX community support the event? The event’s Co-Charis are trying to sell enough tickets to raise as much money as possible for the event’s causes. So far, the support for the event through social media and word of mouth has been greatly successful. By continuing to share news of this tournament, the entire community can be made aware of its importance. One simple thing that students can do to support Pucks for Purpose is to buy a ticket to the tournament. All proceeds will be donated to charity so attendees can be certain their money is going to a good cause. For the event to function, the organization’s team will also rely heavily on the support of volunteers “to act as game day staff” says Danny. Ticket scanners, ushers, and time/score keepers will be necessary for the tournament to go smoothly. Individuals who are interested in taking part on game day should keep track of the Pucks for Purpose Instagram (@pucksforpurpose) for important updates. For those who want to play in the tournament tryouts for the Business and Art-Sci teams will be held on January 27th from 3:00- 5:00 and 5:00-7:00 respectively.

Pucks for Purpose isn't just about scoring goals; it's about scoring for a purpose. It's a reminder that, together, we can be a driving force for positive change. Every shot, every save, and every goal will get us closer to making an impact in the fight against cancer and supporting those with intellectual disabilities. Pucks for Purpose is proof that amazing things can happen when people unite in support of something bigger than themselves.