Hockey has always been a great excuse for Canadians to come together whether for the love of the game or for a great cause. And this year in Sault Ste. Marie is no different, as teams from around the area gather together once again for an ice hockey tournament in support of Jumpstart.
According to tournament organizer Albert Williams, this annual charity hockey tournament started more than 20 years ago as a tiny challenge between lottery workers at the OLG Casino. It has since grown into the second largest fundraiser for Jumpstart in Canada, with over 20 teams registered in both men’s and lady’s divisions.
“The first year it was just a game between coworkers who threw in money, and we’d donate that,” said Williams, who along with Heather Smith helps coordinate logistics for the fundraiser. “Last year we raised over $41,000. We were told our tournament raises more money for Jumpstart than any other event except the one that includes NHL players.”
Funds are raised through individual registration fees for each player participating in the tournament. Players are asked to raise a minimum of $80, but many of them raise much more. Williams said several players collected pledges of over $1,000 while the top three fundraisers each collected pledges over $2,000. The tournament is strictly for adults, as most youth hockey players are already committed to a busy schedule of tournaments. For the first time this year’s tournament includes an over 45 division.
All proceeds from the tournament get channeled into the local Jumpstart program that helps kids overcome barriers to sport and recreation, education, and health. Jumpstart provides grants for inclusive play, language, literacy, and social-emotional programming for preschool children from under-resourced communities, and live Zoom-based sessions that teach healthy eating habits. Jumpstart's goal is to promote quality early learning and well-being for all children.
“Jumpstart has been great to work with,” said Williams. “They do a lot to help. They give us good prizes as incentives, they make sure we have pucks and water. They’re a great organization and community partner.”
While the tournament is almost at capacity in respect to team registrations, Williams said there are still many ways local community members can get involved in this important community event.
“We still encourage people to contact us to make a donation,” said Williams. “We could always use more volunteers. If high school students are looking for community hours they can help. If there are people out there who want to put their name in as a spare player we can do that too.
Williams said all cheques should be made out to Jumpstart Sault Ste. Marie as the money stays in the community.
To reach out or inquire about volunteering, call 705-255-0094 or email Albert Williams at kocheece@shaw.ca