MOLINE, ILLINOIS (February 11, 2019) — On Saturday, February 9, the Quad City Storm hockey team defeated archrivals, The Peoria Rivermen, for a Hockey Fights Cancer game at the TaxSlayer Center to raise money for Gilda’s Club Quad Cities. The Quad City Storm and Ascentra Credit Union teamed up with the non-profit organization, raising a grand total of $21,700.
Over 5,000 fans filled the arena, making it the second largest attended game outside of the hockey team’s opening night. The night was extra special honoring those who have fought cancer with a Paint the Ice event prior to the game, and “I Fight For” signs featuring names of survivors or loved ones were scattered throughout the TaxSlayer Center.
“Seeing the names on the ice Saturday night of those that have faced a cancer diagnosis and the way the community came together to honor and support them represents an important part of what our mission is about,” said Gilda’s Club Quad Cities Executive Director Joy McMeekan. “The money raised through this event will stay here in our local community to make sure anyone impacted by cancer is aware of and has access to free psychosocial support to make sure that no one faces cancer alone.”
After an exciting 4-3 win over the Rivermen, a cancer ribbon jersey auction took place. At the end of the night, all of the proceeds raised from the game including ticket sales, Chuck-a-Puck sales and more were tallied up, and a check presentation was made for all to celebrate.