Hockey greats face off for charity at Hockey Night for Osler event

February 20, 2014 · 0 Comments

Some of the greatest and most popular hockey players in NHL history faced off recently in an epic match that thrilled spectators and netted more than $72,000 to support redevelopment initiatives at William Osler Health System (Osler) hospitals.
More than 1,200 fans purchased tickets for the game at Brampton’s Powerade Centre to watch Darryl Sittler and Paul Coffey captain teams that included Marcel Dionne, Mike Krushelnyski, Dan Daoust, Dennis Maruk, Gilbert Dionne and Johnny Bower (coach). Teams also included a number of Osler physicians, staff and supporters who had funds pledged for the opportunity to suit up with the hockey legends.
“Hockey Night for Osler has always been one of our best-selling events, and judging from the enthusiastic crowd here tonight, this year is no different,” said William Osler Health System Foundation President and CEO Ken Mayhew. “Special thanks and congratulations must be given to our sponsors, our coaches and players, our event co-chairs, and the many volunteers who make this event such a great success. With this tremendous support, we are expanding and redeveloping our sites and continuing to improve access to the programs and services that families in this community rely on most.”
Fans were treated to an added bonus at the end of the game when a 10-10 tied score forced the game into a shoot-out. After three players from each team were given a chance to score, Team Sittler emerged victorious, with Jonathan Munro of GO Transit scoring the winning goal.
“To say that hockey legends like Darryl Sittler, Paul Coffey and Johnny Bower helped your hospital raise much-needed funds for the community is pretty unique, and something we won’t forget,” said William Osler Health System President and CEO Matthew Anderson. “This support, along with assistance from the community will help us add a new wing at Etobicoke General, build the new Peel Memorial and fund the next generation of diagnostic equipment and technology at Brampton Civic Hospital. This is an exciting time for health care in this region, and we are happy to be part of it.”

NHL alumni Paul Coffey and Darryl Sittler flanked Osler Foundation President and CEO Ken Mayhew and top fundraiser Tony Santos at centre ice for the cheque presentation following the match at the recent Hockey Night for Osler.
Photo submitted