Rangers Forward Antonino Pugliese Partners with Pogo to Raise over $13,000 Through "Pug Life" T-Shirt Campaign
May 15, 2024 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Kitchener Rangers News Release
Kitchener, ON - Rangers forward Antonino Pugliese has proven that off the ice, his dedication to making a difference is as fierce as his presence on it. Teaming up with the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO), a leading childhood cancer support organization, Pugliese embarked on a philanthropic journey that exceeded all expectations.
The initiative began with a simple yet powerful idea - "Pug Life" t-shirts were made which encapsulated the spirit of Pugliese's game: small but mighty. What started as a fun t-shirt endeavor quickly transformed into a meaningful partnership with Pogo, a cause deeply personal to Pugliese as his younger brother fought childhood cancer.
"[The shirts] sold out in like the first night and that's just how our fans are, they're so supportive of us," said Pugliese. "[Pogo] helped me a lot growing up with my brother who fought childhood cancer and so to be able to give back to them means a lot to me."
Initially setting a modest goal of $1,000 in t-shirt sales and donations, Pugliese's ambition and the overwhelming support of fans and supporters saw that goal skyrocket to $10,000. However, the generosity and solidarity of the community surpassed even that lofty target, culminating in a total of $13,198.60 raised for Pogo.
"A relationship like this between Pogo and the Rangers is just so important for a number of different reasons; like bringing the community together to fundraise for charities like pogo," said Development Officer of Pogo Cheryl Jorritsma. "These funds will provide financial assistance to families so they can pay for out-of-pocket costs associated with their child's treatment. As well as fund promising research that examines the impact of childhood cancer and its treatment."
The overwhelming success of the "Pug Life" campaign serves as a testament to the power of teamwork, both on and off the ice. Pugliese and Pogo have demonstrated that by coming together, even the smallest efforts can make a monumental impact on the lives of those in need.
For more information about Pogo and how to support their mission, please visit pogo.ca.
• Discuss this story on the Ontario Hockey League message board...
Ontario Hockey League Stories from May 15, 2024
- Firebirds Bring Back Assistant Coaches Ruotsalainen and Posa, Hire Scott MacDonald as Video Coach - Flint Firebirds
- Rangers Forward Antonino Pugliese Partners with Pogo to Raise over $13,000 Through "Pug Life" T-Shirt Campaign - Kitchener Rangers
- Spirit Sign Right-Shot Defenseman Sienko - Saginaw Spirit
- First-Round Pick Kohyn Eshkawkogan Commits to 67's - Ottawa 67's
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
Other Recent Kitchener Rangers Stories
- In Memory of Michael Deane
- Simon Motew Commits to St. FX University
- Eight Rangers Invited to Canada's Program of Excellence Summer Camps
- Mitchell Martin Commits to the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees
- Rangers Select Two European Players in the CHL Import Draft Wednesday
