FRASER, Mich. – The Original Six Alumni Matchup took center stage at Big Boy Arena, bringing together ice rink legends for a memorable event on Saturday.
The third annual event featured both a sled hockey game between Team USA and Team Canada and an alumni showdown between the Detroit Red Wings and Montreal Canadiens, all in support of several charitable causes.
From the very beginning, the alumni matchup had all the elements of a classic face-off: legendary players, intense rivalry, and inspiration both on and off the ice.
Hundreds of spectators gathered to witness the best of the best.
Paul Smith, a fan in attendance, shared his enthusiasm. “Oh, it’s fantastic. You know what, every support is special ’cause it’s a good time, and it gets them involved.”
This was no ordinary matchup.
Pat Maher from the Knights of Columbus expressed his excitement about seeing the old players back on the ice.
The event featured alumni from the Detroit Red Wings and Montreal Canadiens, playing to raise significant funds for the several groups.
John Pastor, President of the GH Pastor Foundation for Kids, explained the impact of the charitable event.
“The charity raises money for autism, for Down Syndrome, epilepsy and for the sled hockey teams,” he said. “So, we also give money to the Children’s Miracle Network.”
Among the sled hockey players was the iconic Vladimir Konstantinov, representing Team USA.
When asked how he felt, Konstantinov simply replied, “Good.” His return to the ice in recent years mirrors the triumphs of other sled hockey players, focusing on overcoming challenges.
Tyler McGregor of Team Canada shared his journey.
“My parents put me on skates pretty early on and then I lost my leg to cancer at 15. I was looking for a new opportunity to continue to play and that’s actually how I got into sled hockey the first time,” he said. “It’s been about 14 years now, and I’m pretty honored to play such a phenomenal sport.”
The event aimed to expose people from all walks of life to the game and demonstrate that individuals of all abilities have a place on the team.
Pastor said he’s seen increased turnout in the first two years.
In those years, he said $60,000 has been donated to various groups, and there is hope that the momentum will continue to grow.
