A 16-10 win by the Toronto Rock provided the perfect backdrop for the coming out party of a newly incorporated not-for-profit whose mission is “to use lacrosse, the Creator’s game, to provide an experience for “in need” communities/children & adolescents that is empowering, inclusive, sustainable and that provides growth that is emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual”.
Thanks to the help of the Toronto Rock and friends, Spirit of the Stick hosted a silent auction that brought in just under $4000. A traditional wooden stick, made by Delby Powless Sr and donated by Powless Lacrosse Store, was the top item.
Thanks to the generous donors and friends who made the evening possible – BlueCollar Lax, the Brampton Excelsiors & Tom Brannon, the Brooklin Redmen & Mark Stehlin, the Boston Blazers, the Calgary Roughnecks, DOVE 2009 & Jim Zacher, the Edmonton Rush & Chris McElroy, FansDepot & Doug Stapleton, GAIT DeBeer & Jay Rabjohn, Don “Doc” Hedges, the New Westminister Salmonbellies, Rob Roche, the Rochester Knighthawks, Ronald Munroe & Megan Owens; and a couple of anonymous donors.
Wristbands, buttons and t-shirts were also available as part of the information available to introduce this new initiative to lacrosse fans.
Forty volunteers, ranging in age from eight years old to 80 years, helped both in the preparation for the evening and with all the events that night.
“The only way an idea like this can accomplish its goals is with dedicated volunteers. And ours are among the best in the world,” shared Christine Kurt, one of the Co-Chairs.
But it was Les’s Fund that provided Spirit of the Stick with their biggest donation of the night. Toronto Rock scarves have been on sale at all the home games this season, thanks to Jarrett Harris and his volunteers. The result was a $15,000 cheque presentation prior to the game.
“We are overwhelmed by the amazing work of the volunteers with Les’s Fund & the Rock Roadies. I can’t imagine a better way to keep Les Bartley’s legacy alive than by helping children,” said Jim Veltman, Co-Chair of Spirit of the Stick.
Spirit of the Stick also used this opportunity to thank the artist who created their very unique logo. John Jacobs, a talented Haudenosaunee artist, and his family and friends were guests for the evening. Besides enjoying the game itself, John shared that the highlight of his night was seeing the logo he created displayed all over the Air Canada Centre.
For more information about Spirit of the Stick, visit www.spiritofthestick.com or contact Christine J. Kurt, Co-Chair (905)764-1005/ info@spiritofthestick.com .
