BUTTE, Mont. — It’s only been a year since Montana Tech hockey restarted after shutting down in 2020, and they are already making a lasting impression on the community.
Although the young squad that is filled with underclassmen isn’t racking up wins on the ice yet, they are making a difference off it.
“The club as a whole always likes to look for important causes to support, and breast cancer is definitely one of them,” said Head coach and team manager Dave Rathgeber.
Thanks to a suggestion from a player and their family, the Orediggers are hosting a Pink the Rink night this Friday and will be wearing special pink jerseys for one night only that are being auctioned off.
“It means a lot to me because I’ve had family members with breast cancer in the past. And I personally think it’s a good way to show butte cares about breast cancer and help raise money,” said freshman goaltender Eddie Kazmierczak.
All proceeds will go to the St. James Cancer Center, with a goal of raising $5,000. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. as the Diggers will face Eastern Washington. Admission is free thanks to a sponsorship from Illumination Women’s Health, and donations will be accepted throughout the game.
“It means a lot because it affects a lot of people, male and female, most people don’t think about it (that way). All this money can do a lot to help research and fight cancer because it’s a really big problem in our community,” said freshman left winger Lance Baumgart.
This won’t be the only fundraiser this year that Oredigger hockey is hosting, as they will host a teddy bear toss on Dec. 8 when they take on the Montana Griz and are planning a military appreciation night for the end of the season.
“And with that event we’re going to be teaming up with campus ROTC and the veteran task force as well,” said Rathgeber, adding that funds will go to the local VA.
Although you don’t have to be at the game to bid on the jerseys, there will be opportunities for meet and greets and autographs after the game. Team schedule posters will also be available to be signed. The auction will close this Friday at 9:30 p.m.
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