Friday, September 16, 2011

Saints and Pontiacs Hold Charity Game in Slave Lake

Press Release

The Spruce Grove Saints have announced a charity game with the Bonnyville Pontiacs in Slave Lake, Alberta on January 25th. Proceeds from the game will be donated to Slave Lake Minor Hockey. The Alberta Junior Hockey League regular season game will take place at 7:00 PM at the Arctic Ice Centre. The game was originally scheduled to be played in Spruce Grove, AB.

Spruce Grove Saints Governor Darren Myshak is thrilled to bring the Saints to Slave Lake. "We are very excited and feel privileged to be a part of this event, which will showcase our League and teams while supporting all the citizens and Slave Lake Minor Hockey. Growing up and living most of my life in Swan Hills, I have gone through many town evacuations due to forest fires, but I can only imagine what the people of Slave Lake have experienced this past Spring."

"We are looking forward to playing in front of a full house as I know how good of a hockey community Slave Lake is. It is great to be part of a League that values all of our communities in Alberta and offers support where and when it is needed the most. Come to the game expecting two very good Junior hockey teams battling for playoff positioning as this will be no exhibition game."
The town of Slave Lake, Alberta was devastated by a wildfire that raced through the community on May 15, 2011. The fire forced the complete evacuation of all 7,000 residents and destroyed roughly one-third of Slave Lake. Slave Lake Minor Hockey President Owen Gourley believes this is a unique opportunity for the organization, "We are very thankful that the AJHL is doing this for us. It means a lot to the kids and our community as it is a very unique experience that we wouldn't otherwise have. We are very excited about the game."

"For several years, the Spruce Grove Saints have committed to bringing AJHL hockey into new communities, but this night will be extremely special," said AJHL President Craig T. Cripps. "I am proud that the AJHL, Saints and Pontiacs can work together to assist a community in Alberta and make a financial donation to minor hockey. The residents of Slave Lake have suffered many losses, and we believe this is our way to help young athletes and families."

Details surrounding tickets, donations, sponsors and activities will be announced shortly. Visit the AJHL website www.ajhl.ca for more information.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

No comments: