Article Courtesy of...Dale Clifford, Peterborough Examiner
Image Courtesy of...Brian Crangle
It was an afternoon of a lot of hockey, joking around and, ultimately celebration.
The third annual charity game between the Conservative All-Stars and United Way All-Stars, organized by local MP Dean Del Mastro, raised a record $132,000, as part of the United Way Hockey Challenge, at the Memorial Centre Saturday afternoon.
A crowd, estimated at about 400, attended the event that saw for the unofficial record, the United Way crew beat the Conservative entry 15-10, or something like that. No one was quite sure just how many pucks went into the net, but it really didn't matter.
Last year's event raised more than double from the inaugural affair, $101,200 from $50,000 and Del Mastro said the goal this year was $125,000. Proceeds go to the United Way of Peterborough and District.
"It was an outstanding statement about this community," said Del Mastro. "Many people stepped up and showed their support. It said a lot about the sponsors and businesses and giving back. It was unbelievable."
With Level A on board as Title Sponsor, the Conservative All-Stars comprised mostly MPs from across the country while the United Way entourage featured mainly NHL and Petes Alumni, members of other local organizations and the media.
It marked the first time the game was held during the afternoon on a Saturday, moving from an evening affair on a weekday, and Del Mastro was pleased with the turnout.
"I thought it was quite successful," he said. "It was great to see families with their kids. Everyone had a good time. It was a lot of fun."
While goalie Del Mastro was disappointed at allowing the 15 goals, he gave a lot of credit to the opposition.
"They can shoot the puck and are tremendously talented," he said. "They are wonderful citizens, too, as they support their community."
NHL Alumnus and United Way player Doug Evans was happy to take part in his third straight event. He said it felt special when he saw how much was raised.
he said. "It's a great promotion and we enjoy helping the community. It's like we are giving back. It's good to play with the guys again, too. We don't see each other much but like getting together when we can and for something like this. The Conservatives have a good team and it's fun to play them. It's a great charity and they enjoy it, too,"
Evans agreed moving it to Saturday and the early afternoon was a good idea in that it was better for children to come out and watch and it didn't conflict with anything else at that time.
There were several gags throughout the game, including city police Sgt. John Ogrodinik taking Del Mastro and referee Paul Hewitt off the ice in handcuffs and the referees picking up sticks and talking shots on goal while play was going on.
The game was divided into two 20-minute halves. In between there were several activities including a silent auction, The Staffing Connection $10,000 shootout, which wasn't won, and a skills competition, featuring fastest skater, hardest shot and breakaways.
The McMillan Cup, named in honour of the late Tony McMillan, a close friend and former campaign manager of Del Mastro, was presented to the winning team by Tony's widow Leslie.
United Way Campaign Co-Chairs John and Susan Mackle were on hand to receive the cheque at the end of the proceedings.
