The Oil Caps, Steinbach Pistons, the MJHL and a packed house at Tundra Oil and Gas Place showcased their overwhelming support for a good cause on Thursday night for Game 2 of the MJHL championship, raising a total of $18,135.20 for the Humboldt Broncos organization.
“We wanted Humboldt to realize everyone is thinking of them and that this was our way to honour what has happened,” said Jamie Hodson, director of business and hockey operations for the Oil Capitals. “Everyone involved and in attendance at the game showed true heart and love for the whole community of Humboldt and the Broncos organization. This game was played on the ice and in all our hearts as we all continue to think of the whole hockey community in Humboldt. This truly will have been a night we shall all remember for a long time as we continue to honour the Broncos organization.”
A total of $10,080 was raised from Humboldt T-shirt sales that were made available for purchase that night, while 50/50 sales helped raise $6,040. Meanwhile, a donation box for green ribbons ended up raising a total of $2,015.20.
“It was pretty overwhelming,” said Oil Caps governor Bob Berry. “That number is probably higher than anyone expected. It’s just a testament to the community and everyone involved that was part of it. It was certainly outstanding to see everyone get involved for such a good cause and a big thank you goes to everyone who put it together the way that they did.”
It wasn’t just the game itself that helped raise funds for the Broncos, but rather earlier in the day, the community also stepped up with their own efforts to raise money. Oil Caps head coach and GM Troy Leslie along with a few members of the Oil Caps helped out with a barbeque that was held at Virden Collegiate. Leslie and the players also made burger deliveries that day to several businesses.
“We kind of got into the spirit of things earlier that day and with the funds raised that night, it just shows the true essence of the community and how everybody wants to help a lending hand.”
Oil Caps co-captain Morgan Magwood says it was sure nice to get back to playing hockey again, adding that the game itself helped with the healing process for everyone involved.
“It was very nice to see all the people come out and support the Humboldt Broncos and raise all that money was truly special. I think both teams and the league did a very good job with handling the situation as it was a very memorable night for everyone in the hockey community.”
Oil Caps forward Tyler Kirkup says he’s amazed at how everyone in the community came together, adding that the pregame ceremony was truly touching.
“It was very emotional stepping back onto the ice again and I’m proud of all the guys for playing the way we did. We played that game with heavy hearts and for the entire Humboldt Broncos organization.”
Teammate Kirklan Lycar couldn’t agree more.
“I think for every single junior hockey player that has ever rode a bus it certainly hits home very hard. It was truly a very special night.”