Goaltender Tyler Bunz Saves the Day for Local Kids

February 20, 2013 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced that goaltender Tyler Bunz has partnered with Recreational Sports Club of San Joaquin (RSC) for a charitable program to benefit youth involvement in sports for local kids around the Stockton area.

Retroactive to Opening Night on Oct. 12, Bunz will donate 50 cents per save this season to RSC for their goal to provide sports and leisure opportunities for persons with disabilities in the Stockton community.

"Regardless of health, social status or income, kids should be allowed to play any sport they love," said Bunz. "It's very satisfying to help out kids with an ambition like that. I've been fortunate to be involved with similar outreach programs in the past during my time in junior hockey. I'm looking to help out as much as I can during my time here in Stockton."

Founded by community volunteers and parents of special needs children, RSC works with local community programs to provide resources and enrichment to their existing sports programs. In addition, RSC provides opportunities to cultivate skill sets and social confidence which increases independence and integration in the larger community.

"As an organization, RSC is honored and proud to be the recipient of funds donated by Tyler for all of his saves throughout the Thunder season," said RSC executive director Roger Slingerman. "I am amazed and excited when professional athletes take the time and effort to show their support to the local community and in our case to persons with disabilities in San Joaquin County."

With his commitment, Bunz has already pledged $353 to RSC through Feb. 19. He made a career high 41 saves on Feb. 10 at Alaska and has a shutout in 28 games this season for the Thunder. Bunz was selected in the fifth round (121st overall) of the 2010 National Hockey League Entry Draft by the Edmonton Oilers.

Fans can also join Bunz by contributing at Stockton Arena on Sunday, Mar. 17 when the Thunder hosts the Bakersfield Condors at 4:00 p.m. A percentage of proceeds from group tickets purchased for the game will benefit RSC through Bunz's name.

Group tickets for the Mar. 17 game will be available and can be purchased by calling Robert Norton, Thunder manager of group sales at (209) 373-1553.

For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit www.stocktonthunder.com.



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