Richmond will play host to Vancouver Canucks Alumni and hockey teams from across Metro Vancouver for the second annual Face Off Against Cancer tournament.
Former Canucks Kirk McLean and Jyrki Lumme will be among the players lacing up next week at the Richmond Ice Centre at Riverport for the charity tournament, which raises money for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Camp Goodtimes program, enabling children with cancer and their families to forget about cancer for a while and experience camp.
For teams like 37 Strong, however, the March 20 tournament is more than just another fundraisier — it’s an opportunity to unite and remember a teammate and friend who sadly lost his own life to cancer last year.
Before he died, City of Vancouver parks and recreation employee Trevor Desjardins encouraged people to get active and shared his love of hockey by organizing a local team.
“Here’s a guy who lived a healthy lifestyle, didn’t drink or smoke and got cancer,” said Jayson Heaney, 37 Strong’s team captain.
“Hockey connects people and Trevor was the heart and soul of our team. This is our second time participating…and first time playing in the tournament without Trevor.
“It’s going to be very emotional for all of us, but important that we be there for his memory and to support a cause that is working to stop cancer and to help kids attend Camp Goodtimes.”
As well as raising funds for the program, Face Off Against Cancer is an opportunity to remember those lost to cancer or currently fighting the disease.
Lead sponsor is the Vancouver Canucks Alumni, with McLean and Lumme lending their skating and coaching skills to the event.
“Face Off Against Cancer is a one-of-a-kind event in Metro Vancouver, where teams have a premier hockey experience, all while helping an important charity like the Canadian Cancer Society,” said McLean.
“Very few people haven’t been touched by cancer — myself included. This is my second year supporting the event and it’s both incredibly fun and incredibly meaningful for everyone involved.”
To support teams participating or to register a team, go online to Cancer.ca/FaceOffAgainstCancerBC.
