The Arizona State University hockey program has not only spent the holiday season creating an almost perfect first half on the ice, but also has worked to help create a more perfect Christmas for children in need.
Since combining forces with the Arizona High School Hockey Association, more than 400 toys and over 200 books were donated for the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Players, coaches, and fans all chipped in to help these sick children who will most likely be spending their Christmas Eve in a hospital room, rather than listening for reindeer on their roofs.
ASU Head Coach Greg Powers could not be happier with the outcome of the toy drive. “So many people chipped in and helped out with the toy drive,” Powers said. “It really was incredible. Our staff did an amazing job putting this together, and it’s great knowing our program will contribute to giving children of need a happier holiday season.”
This will not be the last event that the team participates in as it’s not just about life on the ice for this ASU men’s hockey program.
“At ASU, we feel it is critical to make sure our student athletes excel in the classroom, on the ice, and in the community,” said Ken Lind, general manager of the team and one of the organizers of the event. “There are so many valley organizations that can use a hand, and the players really enjoy giving back for all they are blessed with.”
The program has already done so much to help the children of the Phoenix Children’s Hospital, but they’re not done yet. Ken Lind, coach Powers and his wife, and members of the team including assistant captains Danny McAuliffe and Brian Parson will be volunteering at the hospital’s Toyland 2012 event on Christmas Eve.
While the team will be spending their Christmas Eve meeting the children and helping pass out presents, hopefully we can all be reminded of how fortunate we are this holiday season.
