The inaugural McGinn Brothers Big Game, set for Aug. 17, will raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters Centre Wellington (BBBSCW).
The event is hosted by Tye, Brock and Jamie McGinn, three brothers and NHL hockey players from Fergus.
“Our event combines three things that we care about: the great game of hockey, played on the streets just like we did when were kids, being positive role models to youth in Centre Wellington, and finding a fun way to give back to the community that gave us so much,” said Tye.
The McGinn Brothers Big Game is a one-day, four-on-four ball hockey tournament. Forty teams in four divisions (U9, U12, U15, U17) will play all day, leading up to the Big Game, where randomly selected players from registered teams in all divisions will get a chance to play with NHL players.
Get some friends together and register a team of eight to 12 players, organizers urge. Proceeds from registrations and sponsorships go directly to support the BBBSCW capital building fund.
St. Patrick Street West will be closed to accommodate the rinks and spectators. The public is encouraged to come cheer the teams on. Admission is free.
The tournament will lead into Riverfest Elora, which runs Aug. 17 to 19 in Elora. Riverfest Elora will kick off its anniversary concert weekend by taking part in the McGinn’s Big Game. That means bringing in the food trucks, live music and helping out with autograph sessions and giveaways.
“We recognize that not all young people are athletes, but all young people deserve to find the thing they are passionate about, whether it’s Sports or the arts, find their outlet and work hard at it,” said Brock. “My brothers and I love music. We are Riverfest Elora fans. Working with them to support BBBSCW is a perfect game plan.”
The BBBSCW Capital Building Fund will help build a new centre for the organization to allow BBBSCW to operate its own facility, to collaborate with other community organizations and create a community hub, bringing numerous community programs under one roof – all to support youth in Centre Wellington.
“We were lucky enough to grow up here and we had great mentors through coaches, teachers, our parents and the support of a strong community. We want to ensure future generations have those same opportunities,” said Jamie.
“We believe in the work that BBBSCW do to make a difference with youth in our community. It feels great to help them build on that. It’s a win for everyone.”
The McGinn Brothers Big Game will take place on Aug. 17 on St. Patrick Street West in downtown Fergus from noon until 5pm. The event is presented by RBC.
For information on registration, sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, visit www.themcginnbrothersbiggame.com.
