A charity game between two of the city's top hockey teams proved to be a big hit on and off the ice.
The provincial senior women's "A" silver medalists Richmond Devils battled the B.C. Midget champions Richmond Ravens on Sunday at Minoru Arenas' stadium rink in memory of Samantha Wong.
The friendly battle was to raise funds for the B.C. Lupus Society. Wong, a popular member of the Richmond Devils Hockey Club coaching staff, lost her battle with lupus in February of last year.
The charity event raised $3400 from the over 300 spectators in attendance. This includes the contribution of the referees' fees and the proceeds from the 50/50 and raffle draws as well as the assistance and support of the City of Richmond - Arena Services.
Sabrina Wong, an assistant capatin with the Devils and Samantha's sister, expressed her sincere appreciation to the players, volunteers and supporters for making this event such a huge success.
The funds raised will help support B.C. Lupus Society in bringing awareness and education to this relatively unknown disease.
"It was a wonderful gesture for our hockey community to come together to make this all possible. We are so appreciative of all the support and the donations we were able to fundraise for the B.C. Lupus Society," said Wong. "We are grateful for the generosity of all those involved, and most especially for the leadership and support that all our volunteers demonstrated for this event."
