The Diesel Classic returns to Pelham on March 28, with a little NHL star power added on, event organizer Jerry Winnicki says.
The Tyke tournament for minor hockey players raised more than $10,000 last year in its first effort. This year, organizers and volunteers will look for similar results from big donations.
With such a lively response of the first attempt at a fundraiser, it garnished quite a bit of attention in the sports world.
Winnicki, who spent the last several months planning the upcoming event, received a call he never expected. Sidney Crosby’s trainer, Darryl Belfry, a former Niagara resident, heard of the need for donations and decided to donate a signed Crosby jersey – something that has quickly taken centre stage in the fundraising push.
“Everyone taking part in volunteering and donating prizes are helping young kids get a chance to be like Sidney [Crosby] and play hockey. It’s been great not only receiving that jersey, but the other local businesses who’ve stepped up and helped make this tournament possible.”
Winnicki, who started the tournament in honour of his late son Andrew who died in a hunting mishap, hopes people will take advantage of the opportunity to come down for a day filled with hockey and fundraiser, which benefits many in the community.
“Getting comments from coaches who came last year saying what a great time it was and how they want to come back and play makes it all worth it,” Winnicki said.
Many will return, as extra ice time spots allowed Winnicki to re-invite those who competed in last year’s Diesel Classic. Also included are the kids playing Tyke hockey this year.
With no score kept throughout the tournament, it’s about having fun and raising money for great organizations, he said.
Those organizations include Pelham Cares, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, PenFinancial Skate for Kids, Pelham Minor Hockey and the Ottawa Minor Hockey Association where Andrew lived.
“We hope to give back to those organizations this year and any others in need of a little support to get a child back onto the ice. We’re grateful so many others feel the same way.”
Other prizes include Niagara IceDogs autographs, Wendal Clark signed jersey and a Team Canada signed sweater.
Those items will be go through a raffle, while the Sidney Crosby jersey will involve a bidding process. Those interested in bidding can contact Winnicki at [email protected].
Tickets can be purchased at the Pelham Arena, 2x4 Diner and Siders Garage in Wainfleet, and the Fenwick Hardware Store.
