Checkers Pink in the Rink a Rousing Success
February 9, 2009 - ECHL (ECHL)
Charlotte Checkers News Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The pink hue glowed throughout Time Warner Cable Arena, Checkers players donned special pink and navy jerseys while fans draped themselves in pink from head to toe as the Checkers celebrated another immensely successful Pink in the Rink game.
Creating awareness for breast cancer and donating proceeds to non-profit cancer research organizations are among the primary functions of the Pink in the Rink celebration. The first two years in Charlotte, the team donated over $50,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, American Cancer Society and Carolina Breast Friends. This year, the Checkers will add to that total with $22,203, making the grand total for Pink in the Rink fundraising over $72,000 since it's inception in the 2006-2007 season.
The night was special for many reasons. The festivities included a dance routine by the Checkmates that included three survivors of breast cancer and the team also spotlighted three different survivors from each of the respective foundations that participated.
The event also had a personal touch for both Checkers captain Kenny Smith and netminder, Jeff Jakaitis. Smith lost both his grandmothers to breast cancer. His sister is participating in the Boston Marathon on behalf of Susan G. Komen for the Cure in order to raise money and awareness. Jakaitis' mother battled breast cancer just after the goaltender graduated from Lake Superior State University. After treatment, she is now in remission. Proceeds from both players' jersey auction went to benefit foundations which both players are involved.
"I am so excited about the amazing things that took place at this year's Pink in the Rink event," said Tera Black, Checkers chief operating officer. "The energy in the building was electric, the overwhelming display of pink apparel was phenomenal, and the survivors and supporters in the building were truly inspirational. It is one of the best events we do, and I am already looking forward to next year."
The Checkers are playing in their 16th season of play as a member of the ECHL. The next home game will take place on Feb 17th against the Florida Everblades at 7:00 p.m. In the team's 15-year history, the Checkers have made the playoffs 11 times including four consecutive playoff appearances to date. The Checkers are in their fourth season of play at Time Warner Cable Arena. Season tickets are still on sale with full-season packages starting at just $200.
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