Sponsors and supporters of the Innisfail Minor Hockey Association were out on the links last week to ensure reasonable and affordable registration fees next year for local young hockey players.
On June 23, the association held its fourth annual fundraiser at the Innisfail Golf Club. It is the largest and most important fundraiser organized by the association, which oversees the operations of 18 teams from eaglets to midget age groups.
The scramble golf event attracted 128 golfers who split up in 32 teams. The individual entry fee was $150 while teams paid $600.
As well, players were invited to play “Beat the Pro” against club pro Kirk Williscroft. The cost to the challenge was $5 with all proceeds going to the association.
“Pretty well everybody who has come by has played,” said Williscroft, a former association hockey player who hoped to raise $500 by convincing at least 100 participants to accept his challenge. “A few who have come by have actually beat me.”
Last year the golf event raised $14,000 but Tracey Walker, the association’s executive director, said the goal this year was to surpass that figure by at least $1,000. She said the money would go towards keeping hockey and registration fees low and affordable for the community.
“We have amazing sponsorship from the community. We couldn’t do it without them,” said Walker. “We have here alumni coaches, players, referees and hockey moms. They are all out today.”
After playing golf participants were also invited to participate in a silent auction. The day was topped off with a steak supper and prizes for the participants.
