Local spirit shines at second annual Hockey Night in Port Perry

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: A packed house, at Scugog Arena, helped make this year’s Hockey Night in Port Perry a rousing success, as fans, families, and hockey stars came together, on Saturday, November 29th, for an evening of entertainment and community spirit, in support of Oak Ridges Hospice.

Now, in its second year, the charity showcase, once again, delivered a high-energy blend of on-ice action and family-friendly fun. Doors opened at 4:30 p.m., and by the time the puck dropped, at 6 p.m., the arena was buzzing with excitement. Attendees enjoyed games and activities in the recreation hall, before the opening ceremonies, featuring a ceremonial puck drop to officially kick off the night.

The main attraction, a lively game played in two 20-minute periods, kept fans cheering throughout. Celebrity players and local personalities added humour and theatrics, making the match-up as entertaining as it was engaging. During intermission, a minor team joined several well-known hockey names, for a spirited mini-game which quickly became a crowd favourite. The Chuck-a-Puck contest and a steady stream of raffle and door prizes helped keep the energy high, from start to finish.

VIP ticket holders enjoyed centre-ice seating, concession service delivered to their seats, and access to a special lounge during intermission. Many stayed after the final buzzer for an exclusive reception, featuring a Q&A with the evening’s celebrity participants.

“This event is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of our community coming together,” said Christine Vos, executive director of Oak Ridges Hospice. “Seeing so many people fill the arena and support our work means the world to us. Nights like this show just how strong this community is.”

Scugog Council had unanimously voted to sponsor the event, earlier this fall. Councillor Ian McDougall said, the results speak for themselves. “We’re proud to help bring this event to Scugog. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support a local charity while welcoming visitors to our town. The turnout was incredible.”

A long list of well-known hockey personalities took to the ice, including: Doug Gilmour; Terry Ryan; Hockey Hall of Famer Angela James; broadcaster Rod Black; Brad May; and goaltending great Curtis Joseph, who grew up in Keswick. Mr. Joseph said, the atmosphere and purpose behind the event made it an easy decision to participate.

“I always enjoy coming back to communities around the region,” Mr. Joseph added. “Being able to play in front of fans, meet families, and help raise money for a cause as important as hospice care, it’s something I’m proud to support. Events like this remind you what hockey can do off the ice.”

Local attendee, Kara Mitchell, who returned after enjoying last year’s inaugural event, said, this year’s edition exceeded expectations. “It was such a fun night for the whole family,” she said. “The players were amazing with the kids, and knowing the money goes to something so meaningful makes it even better.”

All the proceeds from the event go directly to Oak Ridges Hospice, the only hospice residence in Durham Region, providing end-of-life care at no cost to patients or their families.

“Events like this make our work at Oak Ridges Hospice possible,” added Ms. Vos. “We’re grateful to every player, sponsor, volunteer, and fan who helped make the evening such a success.”

With strong attendance, enthusiastic community support, and a lineup of hockey favourites, Hockey Night in Port Perry, once again, proved to be a highlight of the local calendar, and a powerful reminder of what a small town can achieve together.