Idaho scores in the community

It’s not just about wins and losses on the ice for the Idaho Steelheads.

The team has been committed to spending just as much time and dedication to local organizations.

The athletes participate in a wide variety of events including taking time out to go to schools, visiting hospitals and talking to kids on their own time.

Rookie Goaltender Kellen Briggs recently played floor hockey at an elementary school with 5th graders during their gym period.

“It feels good,” Briggs said. “You were that kid when you were younger, hanging around the rink watching the older guys practice and watching pro hockey. That’s your dream. It’s to get there. You follow them around and you just want their autograph or a puck or a stick or something. That’s what it’s about, giving back to those kids and keeping their hopes and dreams alive and hopefully someday they’ll make it to the same level.”

Defenseman Darrell Hay also acknowledges his feelings toward giving back to the community.

“It’s one of those things where if you can shed light on someone else’s day or make it better, spend a little of your time and touch somebody, it’s such a rewarding feeling,” Hay said. “These are wonderful things to be involved in and any time you have some free time it’s great to be able to give something back.”

While the Steelheads participate in many events throughout the season, the biggest fundraisers are the annual jersey auctions.

“The events raise money and awareness for good causes,”

Hay said.

Hay’s favorite event to participate in is the “Pink in the Rink” jersey auction to raise awareness for breast cancer.

The defenseman doesn’t mind sporting a pink jersey to benefit a cause he believes in.

“We did it a couple of years ago and it was a huge success,” Communications and Media Director Bonnie Snider said. “It was our biggest jersey auction ever. We raised over $21,000 from that

one that year.”

All funds accumulated stay in Boise and benefit St. Lukes Medical Center, treating women with breast cancer and preventative services. This year’s ‘Pink in the Rink’ auction will continue to raise money later this season.

The team will wear a Boise State inspired Steelheads jersey during a three game series against the Phoenix Roadrunners beginning Dec. 12th. Following the end of the third game, the jerseys will be auctioned off to fans and the highest bidder will win the jersey off the player’s back. The total funds raised will go to the pediatric programs at St. Lukes Idaho Elks Rehabilitation Services. It will help raise funds for kids who otherwise would not be able to afford medical care.

According to www.idahosteelheads.com, a total of $133,000 has been raised over the past several years with similar jersey auctions that benefit various causes

at St. Lukes.

While there are many charitable events to contribute to, left wing Lance Galbraith couldn’t narrow it down to one favorite event.

“If people are smiling and we’re making them feel good and doing stuff for the community and the hockey team, and the organization, then that means a lot to me,” Briggs said. “I enjoy all of them."

TRACI HURLESS
Sports Writer

Related Posts:

1. Idaho outlasts Aces, 2-1
2. Idaho sweeps Stockton at home
3. Steelheads goalie waits for a shot
4. Steelheads go Blue and Orange for charity
5. Idaho Steelheads lose at student night