After hundreds of area hockey players finished up their marathon and before the Hospice All-Stars played the Buffalo Sabres Alumni, there was time for young players to hit the ice and for parents and grandparents to rejoice in the sport that many enjoy watching so much at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena.
On Sunday, Hockey For Hospice concluded its two-day fundraising event that also included a skills camp and skate, high school teams showcase and a Sabres autograph session.
The local service organization's hockey marathon was the first of its kind in the area that ran for 14 straight hours.
''Our goal was to create an event that would be enjoyable for the entire community and highlight hockey at all age levels, while raising the awareness of the services Hospice Chautauqua County offers to patients and families during the end stages of a loved one's life,'' said Ron Sellers, Hospice president and CEO. ''The response we have received from the hockey community alone has been phenomenal.''
Part of that response was hundreds of parent and grandparents enjoying the youth league games that were played Sunday afternoon. Ricky Colley said he never misses a chance to see his granddaughter, Gwen, play.
''I try to get in on every event that the ice arena has,'' he said. ''This is one of the best things to happen to this area.''
Colley wasn't alone in his sentiment about the ice arena as Joe Hirliman also enjoys watching hockey live. On Sunday, he was able to see two of his grandsons, Jed and Brendan, play.
''I think this is great. You really get to see the kids progress over the year,'' he said.
Bruce Widen was at the ice arena to see his grandson, Bruce, play in the Mites game.
''It's been a real event - full day. We were here this morning watching the older guys play the marathon. Now I get to see my grandson,'' he said.
Widen, along with Colley and Hirliman, said if the event is held again next year they will be involved.
''Hockey is a way of life in Jamestown,'' he said. ''Also, we get to support a worthwhile cause.''
The only direct cost to the public for the event was a $10 ticket to see the Sabres Alumni take on Team Hospice.
Team Hospice is comprised of amateur hockey players and fanatics from around the region, all of whom are playing for a chance to skate with the Sabres stars of yesteryear and to benefit an organization that works year-round to help others. The team included Congressman Brian Higgins and District Attorney David Foley among others.
