Colorado Mesa University Men's Hockey Team Raises $32,128 for Cancer Patients
On November 4, 2023, Colorado Mesa University hosted its 7th Annual Pink the Rink hockey game at River City Sportplex, facing off against Northern Arizona University. The event, aimed at giving back to the greater Grand Junction community, has become a symbol of philanthropy and community engagement for CMU's Hockey Team.
Since 2016, Pink the Rink has raised funds for the St. Mary's Hospital Cancer Assistance Fund, supporting local community members battling cancer. The event has grown significantly over the years, involving various activities such as T-shirt sales, jersey raffles, a silent auction and a kick-off event, culminating in an exciting hockey game.
The 2023 Pink the Rink game marked a historic moment for CMU, as they secured a 6-0 victory against NAU. The team's dedication resulted in record attendance and an unprecedented amount of money raised for the St. Mary's Hospital Cancer Assistance Fund.
This year's record-breaking contributions from the team were highlighted as they presented Intermountain Healthcare - St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation President Bryan Johnson and staff with a large check amounting to $32,128.
The team's commitment to community service through Pink the Rink has garnered prestigious recognition, earning them the National Community Service Award from the American Collegiate Hockey Association twice, 2018 and 2023, and the Congressional Community Service Award from the United States Congress in 2018.
In total, the team has raised over $132,000 for the St. Mary's Hospital Cancer Assistance Fund since 2016. Every penny collected directly supports the local charity, emphasizing the event's meaningful impact on the community.
CMU Assistant Professor of History and Men's Hockey Head Coach, Tim Winegard, commended the team,"I cannot stress how proud I am of my players for all of their hard work and tireless with this event, both on and off the ice, making this a record Pink the Rink year as far as attendance and money raised. They are the model of student-athletes here at CMU."
CMU's Pink the Rink event continues to exemplify the spirit of community service and teamwork. The players' dedication and the overwhelming community support reaffirm the event's significance, not only as a hockey game but as a beacon of hope and assistance for those fighting cancer in the local community.