YMCA excited for road hockey fundraiser

By JAMES TUBB on June 24, 2022.

Road hockey fans can get their fix today with hockey for a cause.

The YMCA of Medicine Hat is hosting the Sticks on First Street Hockey Tournament. The Sticks on First tournament is an IG Wealth Management Medicine Hat initiative to raise funds for the local YMCA.

Helene Nicholson, philanthropy director with the YMCA, said they’re honoured to be beneficiary of funds raised at the first rendition of Sticks on First.

“The proceeds from this event will go to support YMCA programs and services across the board with a portion of it being broken out specifically for our Strong Kids campaign,” Nicholson said. “That is the financial assistance program to help individuals who may be struggling with those financial barriers to access YMCA programs and services.”

The event is held on a closed First Street SW from the public library to city hall in order to accommodate five street hockey rinks. Eight teams will face off for four to six rounds of four-on-four street hockey.

Nicholson says they are still looking for players, and anyone interested can show up at the registration table in one of the sea cans to see if they still have space on their rosters.

In a press release, YMCA of Medicine Hat CEO Sharon Hayward said she is also very excited for the event.

“We are excited to be part of this exciting inaugural event. IG Wealth Management are wonderful community builders, and we are very appreciative to be selected as the charity partner for this event,” Hayward said. “We hope families get out downtown to have fun and watch some street hockey, all in support of a good cause.”

Nicholson isn’t sure the last time she played road hockey but is excited for the day of connection with the community.

“This is a great way for us to engage with community in a different capacity,” Nicholson said. “We’re kind of always out there in different ways with our programs and services but this is just a really fun, family day. We encourage people to come out and watch the event to cheer on the teams.

There will be a 50/50 raffle and food trucks throughout the day with live music courtesy of Medicine Hat Jazz Fest will round out the afternoon.