An annual charity hockey tournament in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has become the second-largest fundraiser for Jumpstart in Canada. The tournament, started over 20 years ago by lottery workers, has grown into a major community event with over 20 teams competing. Funds are raised through player registration fees and donations, with the proceeds supporting the local Jumpstart program that helps children overcome barriers to sport, recreation, education, and health.
Hockey has always been a great way for Canadians to come together, whether for the love of the game or to support a worthy cause. This year in Sault Ste. Marie , the tradition continues as teams from across the region gather once again for an ice hockey tournament benefiting Jumpstart . The annual charity hockey event, organized by Albert Williams and Heather Smith, began over 20 years ago as a small challenge between lottery workers at the OLG Casino.
Since then, it has blossomed into the second-largest fundraiser for Jumpstart in Canada, with over 20 teams registered in both men's and ladies divisions. 'The first year it was just a game between coworkers who threw in some money, and we'd donate that,' said Williams, who, along with Smith, coordinates 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, with each player committing to a minimum of $80 in pledges. However, many players exceed this amount significantly. Williams shared that several players collected pledges over $1,000, while the top three fundraisers each brought in pledges exceeding $2,000. The tournament is exclusively for adults, as most youth hockey players are already deeply involved in their own busy tournament schedules. Notably, this year's tournament introduces an over 45 division for the first time. All proceeds directly benefit the local Jumpstart program, which assists children in overcoming 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, as well as live Zoom-based sessions that teach healthy eating habits. Jumpstart's overarching 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 nearing capacity in terms of team registrations, Williams emphasized that there are still many ways for local community members to participate in this significant 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 added that all cheques should be made out to Jumpstart Sault Ste. Marie as the money remains within the community. To get involved or inquire about volunteering, individuals can call 705-255-0094 or email Albert Williams at
Hockey Charity Tournament Jumpstart Sault Ste. Marie Community Fundraiser Children Sport Recreation Education Health
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