The Northern Ontario Classic hits the ice at the Bill Barber Complex in Callander on Wednesday night.
The U13A North Bay Trappers and the U13A East Nipissing Vipers face off at 7 pm.
Along with the game, prizes and a silent auction two charities are benefiting.
Trappers Team Manager Derek Morris says admission to the game is free with a donation to Ronald McDonald House in Ottawa or a food item for the Salvation Army Food Bank/School Snack Program.
“One of the families on the Vipers who we got to know, Jillian’s journey and how their family used Ronald McDonald House in Ottawa,” he says. “We supported the Slide for the Cure in the past, that the Kmith family runs. We felt that that was a great opportunity to use that as one of the anchor charities.”
At last check, over $1,100 has been raised for Ronald McDonald House, which officials say has served as a place to call home for families with seriously ill children undergoing treatment.
Morris also says leading up to the classic, both the Trappers and Vipers have been collecting food for The Salvation Army program.
“I work with Stephanie Watkinson at the Salvation Army and she’s really brought to light the food insecurity and the stress that their food bank has had this year,” he says. “We had groups of Trappers and Vipers in the same cars going out and canvassing North Bay and surrounding area. It really shows what team sport can do for these young 11 and 12-year-old boys.”
Morris adds the food drive has already surpassed expectations.
