Hockey Night in Port Perry returning for third year in support of Oak Ridges Hospice

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: Hockey fans will have another chance to share the ice with some of the sport’s biggest names this autumn, while helping support compassionate end-of-life care in Durham Region.

The third annual Hockey Night in Port Perry returns to Scugog Arena, on Saturday, November 21st, with NHL alumni, professional hockey players, local participants, and fans coming together for an evening of hockey and fundraising, in support of Oak Ridges Hospice.

The event was recently highlighted, at a Township of Scugog council meeting, where Christine Vos, executive director of Oak Ridges Hospice, spoke about the fundraiser and its importance to the organization. Council subsequently agreed to waive the ice and facility rental fees for the event.

Maple Leafs legend, Darcy Tucker has already been announced as the first celebrity player for this year’s game, with additional hockey personalities expected to be revealed in the weeks leading up to the event.

Last year’s Hockey Night in Port Perry sold out, and organizers are encouraging fans to secure their tickets early for this year’s event.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m., when attendees can take part in games and activities in the recreation hall, before the evening moves into the arena for opening ceremonies and a ceremonial puck drop. The celebrity hockey game gets underway at 6 p.m.

The game will feature two 20-minute periods, along with commentary and plenty of entertainment. During the intermission, spectators can watch a special mini-game, featuring a minor league team playing alongside celebrity players.

There will also be a Chuck-a-Puck game, raffle, and door prizes throughout the evening.

General admission tickets are $35, and children aged 10 and under are admitted free.

A VIP experience is also available for $150. The VIP package includes: reserved centre-ice seating, a special VIP wristband, in-stands concession service and access to a VIP area during intermission, including food and drinks. VIP guests will also have access to an exclusive post-game reception, beginning at approximately 8:30 p.m.

For those looking to move from the stands to the ice, player registration is now open. Participants can pay to secure a spot or raise funds in support of Oak Ridges Hospice. For the hospice, the event represents far more than a night of hockey.

Oak Ridges Hospice operates the only residential hospice in Durham Region, providing compassionate end-of-life care at no cost to residents and their families.

The annual Hockey Night in Port Perry fundraiser provides an opportunity for the community to come together around a shared love of hockey while helping ensure hospice care remains available to those who need it.

With last year’s event reaching capacity and player spots limited, organizers are urging both prospective players and spectators to register early.

Hockey Night in Port Perry takes place Saturday, November 21st, at Scugog Arena. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., the celebrity hockey game begins at 6 p.m., and the VIP reception follows the game.

Tickets and player registration are available through the Oak Ridges Hospice website.