OSHAWA, Ont. – The Ontario Tech women's hockey program is proud to announce its first ever military appreciation night, which will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 when the Ridgebacks take on the York Lions at the Campus Ice Centre.
The game will serve as a tribute to the Canadian Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice, veterans who proudly served for Canada and current armed forces members who continue to serve our country proudly and with honour. Ontario Tech is proud to have a chance to highlight their special contribution to our country, while also collecting donations for Soldier On, a program of the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group that is committed to supporting veterans and serving members to adapt and overcome permanent physical or mental health injury or illness through physical activity and sport.
WO Tony Moreau and Cpt Kristina Moreau will be in attendance to participate in a ceremonial puck drop. The father and daughter both served in the Canadian Armed Forces with distinction and were injured in the line of duty. Both are currently members of Soldier On.
To this day, Soldier On has aided over 5,000 Canadian armed forces members. The opportunity that is given to these Canadian heroes allows them to overcome challenges they face, integrate back into their communities and sets a foundation for an active lifestyle moving forward.
In addition, Ontario Tech is proud to host members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 637. Alex Edwards and Don Edwards will present the colour party to accompany the pre-game ceremony.
Headed by president Gerry Dobbin, Branch 637 is one of two Royal Canadian Legions in Oshawa. Without people like Dobbin and the countless volunteers across Canada, the amazing work they do and spaces they create would not be possible.
O Canada will be played by 2 VandenBos Whitby Royal Air Cadet Squadron. The Whitby based Squadron, named in memory of local Snowbird pilot Capt Michael VandenBos, was formed in 2003 and currently has over 200 cadets ages 12-18.
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Campus Ice Centre. A portion of ticket revenue will be donated to Soldier On in addition to other donation opportunities throughout the night.
