The Cambridge Rivulettes are hoping to connect with the community in an effort to give back during the upcoming season.
The team has announced their 2024-25 event night schedule featuring several charitable efforts.
Among the special themed games is Pink in the Rink on Oct. 25 against Oakville, a Teddy Bear Toss versus North York on Nov. 29 and their Mental Health Night on Jan. 17 when Etobicoke comes to town.
Giving back is more than just a nice thing to do for the team, it's an obligation they feel is necessary.
"We're a community based team and it's important to all of us that we give back to our community and these special nights do that on so many levels," Rivulettes manager Rob Hedges said.
"We donate the funds from the Pink in the Rink night to breast cancer research, something that's very near and dear to many of us. The funds from Mental Health night go to the Mental Health Association of Waterloo Region to help in the fight against the stigmatism here in our region and to support those who need the support locally."
Hedges said the games not only give back by way of donations but they provide an opportunity to forge relationships with people in the community, including minor hockey organizations.
He believes his players can serve as an inspiration for youth by providing a positive example for them to follow.
"We generally get a lot of Cambridge Roadrunners and young girls from other associations out to these games and watching them interact with our players is special," Hedges said.
"You can just see the dreams beginning, thinking about being a Rivulette some day and now even being a professional player in the Professional Womens Hockey League."
The team is also hosting an Alumni Night on Dec. 20, Billet Appreciation on Feb. 17 and their Graduating Seniors Night on March 7.
Their home opener is scheduled for Sept. 27 against the Nepean Jr. Wildcats.