T-Birds, Hampden County Sheriff's Office Partner for Domestic Violence Awareness Night
AHL Springfield Thunderbirds

T-Birds, Hampden County Sheriff's Office Partner for Domestic Violence Awareness Night

Published on April 1, 2026 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Springfield Thunderbirds News Release


SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The Springfield Thunderbirds, in partnership with the Hampden County Sheriff's Office and the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, are pleased to announce the groups' collaboration for Domestic Violence Awareness Night at the Thunderbirds' game on Saturday, April 4 against the Syracuse Crunch.

The two organizations will work in conjunction with the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, which provides shelter, support services, and tools for self-sufficiency for women and girls in the community. Prior to the game, the Thunderbirds will wear specialty jerseys during pregame warmups. Fans will have the chance to win the jerseys with jersey raffle tickets. The proceeds will directly benefit the YWCA.

"The Hampden County Sheriff's Office has been proud to stand with the YWCA of Western Massachusetts for many years in supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The work they do every day changes lives across our region," Sheriff Nick Cocchi said. "We're grateful to partner with the Springfield Thunderbirds to turn a great night of hockey into something even bigger - an opportunity for our community to come together, have some fun, and support an organization that provides hope and safety to so many families. I hope people will join us on April 4 and help make it a great night for a great cause."

Founded in 1868, the YWCA of Western Massachusetts has spent more than 155 years serving the region, standing as one of the largest and most impactful YWCA organizations in the country. Central to its mission is supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, while working to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Each year, the organization provides critical services to nearly 12,000 individuals across Western Massachusetts.

"We at the YWCA of Western Massachusetts are extremely grateful for Sheriff Cocchi's continued support and partnership to help spread awareness for domestic violence," said Elizabeth G. Dineen, J.D., CEO of the YWCA of Western Mass. "To be recognized during a Springfield Thunderbirds game will help us expand our reach and ensure that more children and families receive the care they need. It is especially apropos, given that April is Sexual Assault Awareness and National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Thank you to the Hampden County Sheriff's Office and the Springfield Thunderbirds for making this event possible."

"We're proud to stand hand-in-hand with the YWCA of Western Massachusetts and the Hampden County Sheriff's Office to raise awareness around domestic violence and support the critical work being done for survivors in our community," said Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa. "Using our platform to amplify causes like this is not just important- it's our responsibility. Nights like this are about more than hockey; they're about coming together as a community to show support, foster understanding, and help ensure that those impacted know they are not alone."

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