Teams Rally to Support Variety of Causes

Whether it's the battle against cancer, in support of an individual in need, or a charity, local sports teams are doing their civic duty in support and awareness for a variety of causes. The Steele County Blades junior hockey team just made a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern MN. Proceeds from the chuck-a-puck event on January 18 on Federated Insurance night made for a $184 check to BBBS.

The submitted photo includes (left to right) Jess McCoy-Community Relations Coordinator for Federated Insurance, Nick Adamek-head coach of the Steele County Blades, Megan Horton-Community Outreach Director for BBBS of Southern MN, and Mark Arjes-Youth 1st.

That night the team recognized National Mentoring Month and Federated Insurance honored employees who are involved in mentoring youth. Steele County lost the game that night, but more recently, rallied for a 6-5 win over Rum River Sunday, January 26. The Blades will entertain the Minnesota Blue Ox on Friday, January 31 for Youth Hockey Night.

The Owatonna High School boys hockey team will host Stick it to Cancer on Tuesday, January 28 as Albert Lea comes to Four Seasons. Money raised will benefit From the Heart. Coach Josh Storm commented, "It's a game that's close and dear to our hearts in the hockey program, a big celebration. Raise some money for a really good cause. Something we all rally behind and support those in the community."

The Owatonna girls hockey team also raised money for From the Heart at their recent fundraising night. Senior captain Chloe Schmidt said that hit close to home for her, "It means a lot because my grandpa has cancer. It was a cool thing to honor him...Taping your stick and doing your helmet with fun colors. It shows that people care and it's not all about just sports. It's about giving money to things we care about also."

The girls event raised over $2,500 through a variety of events including auction baskets  sale of baked goods

The Owatonna boys basketball team will host Coaches vs Cancer on Friday, January 31 with Jon Asmundson as the honored guest. The Huskies opponent will be Albert Lea.

The Huskies girls basketball squad will do a fundraising and awareness event for Rachel's Light on Friday, February 7 during the game against Rochester Mayo. In their news release, the girls basketball booster organization quotes the mission statement, "Rachel's Light provides a loving home for women and children, allowing them the opportunity to live out their unique purpose."

One way you can support the fundraiser is to buy a t-shirt from Hat Chic Clothing Company in downtown Owatonna. You can also visit their online store.