Flames Host Hockey Fights Cancer Awareness Night

It was announced on Monday, October 20, that the Calgary Flames will celebrate Hockey Fights Cancer Awareness Night on Tuesday, October 21, when they face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

October has long been devoted to a variety of cancer awareness events among hockey teams of all levels, many holding their “Pink in the Rink” games during October.

Hockey Fights Cancer is an initiative founded in December 1998 by the National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association to raise money and awareness for “hockey’s most important fight.” The color lavender is associated with this initiative—to separate it from the more specific “Pink in the Rink” events dedicated to breast cancer.

To date, through the NHL’s various charitable foundations, both in the U.S. and Canada, more than $13 million has been raised for the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative. Moneys go to support national and local cancer research institutions, children’s hospitals, player charities and local cancer organizations.

In support of Hockey Fights Cancer, select Calgary Flames players will have lavender-colored tape on their sticks and all players will wear the Hockey Fights Cancer helmet decals. There is fan involvement scheduled as well. The fans are asked to participate in the “I Fight For” campaign where they can dedicate a card to someone they know who has fought or is continuing to fight against this dreadful disease. The fans’ cards will be found on the concourse and they are asked to post a picture of their card to their Twitter account in order to be entered to win a signed jersey of defenseman and team captain, Mark Giordano.

And look for a special pre-game ceremonial puck drop to take place with a youth participant from the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Hockey players, the NHL, and the teams are always great about honoring and recognizing the strength and determination required of those fighting against cancer throughout the year, but the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative is a special call to arms that allows fans to purchase attire showing their support. Proceeds from the sales of Hockey Fights Cancer apparel available in FanAttic stores during October will also be directed to the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative.