Everyone came out a winner at the CFCW Critters Million Dollar Hockey Tour at the Westlock Rotary Spirit Centre Nov. 3.
The CFCW Critters scored a 14-7 win over the Westlock Warriors, but more importantly, the tour surpassed $1 million in the campaign’s history. And Westlock didn’t walk away empty handed as the game raised $6,000 for the Westlock Minor Hockey Association.
“Any money raised we put towards our operations, and the longer we can keep fees low, then that’s what we’ll do,” said minor hockey association president Rick Dutchak. “The money is going to be much appreciated and well spent.”
Dutchak and 18 other players sponsored by local businesses laced up to take on the Critters.
Unlike your typical hockey night in Canada, this game had a ‘Critter’ on skates, miniaturized nets, and a round of blindfolded hockey.
“Everybody enjoyed it,” Dutchak said. “We had plenty of guys out there and everybody had a good time. We went upstairs and had a meal afterwards. They really enjoyed the experience and they were glad they came.”
Over 400 people bought tickets to the game, including Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock MLA Glenn van Dijken who was lucky enough to win the $870 50/50 draw. And instead of pocketing the prize, he donated it back to minor hockey.
After the game, the Warriors celebrated with 30 Critters alumni and guests for a VIP meal.
This was the second time the Critters have played in Westlock as the team first played the Rotary Spirit Centre back when its doors opened in 2012, followed by an appearance in Fawcett in 2014.
Braden Conquergood, assistant coach on the midget hockey team, said he hoped the CFCW Critters come back again for a third round.
“I thought it was fantastic,” he said. “It’s not completely serious, but it’s still fun to get out there and play our best because, as much as these guys like to play around, they’re pretty solid players.”
