Calgary City News, Daily Community, Business News and Events

Ball hockey tournament returns to Calgary, raising funds for prostate cancer

CALGARY - Prostate Cancer Canada's Stick-It to Prostate Cancer ball hockey tournament returns to CrossIron Mills on Sunday, September 25th for a second year of hope and empowerment for all men and their families diagnosed and living with the disease.

Stick-It to Prostate Cancer raises awareness and funds for the fight against prostate cancer, the most common cancer to affect Canadian men. This year's Honorary Chair is former Calgary Flames forward and Prostate Cancer Canada supporter Sheldon Kennedy.

"It's an unbelievable day for families of all ages," said Kennedy, who participated in the tournament last year. "I want as many Albertans as possible to take part in this incredible event. It's important that we share the message of early detection as widely and as loudly as possible - if you detect and treat prostate cancer in its earliest stages over 90 per cent of cases are curable."

Joining Sheldon Kennedy at the All-Star Game - an emotionally impactful match between local celebrities and prostate cancer survivors - are Olympic Luger Sam Edney and Earle Connor, an 18-time world record holder and two-time Paralympic gold medalist in the 100 metres.

Participants, volunteers and spectators are all still needed to make this year's event a success. There are four divisions of play - Elite, Elite Youth, Corporate and Recreational - and the cost to register is only $250, which guarantees three games, free meals, drinks, snacks, entertainment and a gift bag for each participant. Team captains who register by September 9th will be entered into a draw to win a $200 gift card to Tommy Bahama.

CrossIron Mills has generously offered to donate $1 from each receipt returned to the Customer Service Desk on the day of the event, so even those who can't participate in the ball hockey tournament can still join in the fight against this disease.

Please visit www.StickIt.net to register and for more information.

TOP PHOTO: Celebs and prostate cancer survivors take a breather at the end of the All-Star Game at last year's Stick-It to Prostate Cancer ball hockey tournament. Former Calgary Flames forward Sheldon Kennedy takes over from W. Brett Wilson as this year's Honorary Chair. (courtesy of Prostate Cancer Canada)