CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — It’s a cause that hits close to home for Al Iafrate.
It is why he comes back every year he can for the StandardAreo Face Off Against Cancer.
“I’m sure it touches a lot of people’s lives,” said the former NHL defenceman with the booming shot. “My mother, personally, has had cancer three times. When I got the opportunity to give back and participate in the tournament it was a no-brainer.”
His grandmother also died from cancer.
This year’s tournament will take place Sept. 28 to 30 at MacLauchlan Arena. Twelve teams commit to raising funds that go to support programs for cancer patients in Prince Edward Island. Each team drafts an NHL alumni and plays three games.
It's not so much about winning or losing but having some fun, sharing some laughs and getting a chance to meet some former NHL players while raising funds for the worthy cause.
“Cancer doesn't elude too many people. You’ve either had it yourself or know somebody close to you that has been afflicted,” said right-winger Gary Leeman. “As a past player, being able to, maybe, use your fleeting celebrity status to help and give back is something you want to be part of.”
Both Iafrate and Leeman have been involved in the tournament three of the past four years.
“This tournament keeps going strong because the players and sponsors love it so much,” said Marlene Mulligan, who co-chairs the organizing committee with Tracy Jones. “The NHL Legends and the local teams have a genuine fun weekend playing non-completive hockey and adding unbeatable memories to friendships new and old.”
Leeman said the NHL alumni take pride in getting to know the players who participate in the event and make the fundraiser a success.
“A lot of them remember us playing, so we can get in the dressing room and tell our stories and give them a good time. It’s always great.”
Iafrate said he loves coming to Canada, where people are humble and have good family values, for events like this.
“The people are the best in the world here,” he said. “Each year you get drafted, you meet new people and you remain friends with them.”
The tournament fills up quickly so organizers encourage teams to register as soon as possible.
Need to know
StandardAreo Face Off Against Cancer
What – A charity hockey tournament, organized by the Canadian Cancer Society, where NHL legends are teamed with local teams to raise funds to support programs for cancer patients in Prince Edward Island.
When – Sept. 28-30.
Who – The first line of NHL alumni to be announced included Tom Fergus, Al Iafrate, Darren Langdon, Gary Leeman, Rick Middleton, Chris Nilan and Bob Sweeney.
New this year – The player who raises the most funds by Aug. 31 will join the NHL legends on the three-day tour in 2019.
Teams – Registration is currently open for the 12-team event. Register at http://convio.cancer.ca/faceoffpei. For more information contact Gail MacDonald at 902-566-4007 or [email protected].
Did you know? The event has raised more $370,000 in the first four years.
Where the money goes – Cancer research, community-based support programs and services for people living with cancer, education and information on cancer prevention and screening and advocacy for healthy public policies.
