Black & Gold Legends’ Scott Young gets out in front of Westfield Fire Department’s P.J. Hoynoski during the annual charity ice hockey game at Amelia Park Ice Arena in 2013. (Staff Photo)
WESTFIELD – The Westfield Bombers boys’ ice hockey team is headed to yet another state semifinal. Two-time US Olympic silver medalist Kacey Bellamy (of Westfield) and the Boston Pride are playing for the National Women’s Hockey League’s first-ever Isobel Cup. The Boston Bruins entered Friday entrenched atop the Atlantic Division standings in the National Hockey League.
Continue the hockey celebration this weekend by getting out and showing your community support for local firefighters and EMTs when they take on former Boston Bruins stars.
The annual Black & Gold Legends charity ice hockey event featuring former Boston Bruins against the Westfield Fire Department Union Local 1111 will take place Sunday, March 13 at the Amelia Park Ice Arena at 4:30 p.m.
“Westfield is a hockey town,” said Ray Neilsen, Westfield firefighter and event co-ordinator. “This is a nice way for some kids to see some former players like (NESN color commentator) Andy Brickley who they’ve maybe seen on television in their living rooms. It’s just a home run.”
Previous charity games have featured former Bruins, such as Brickley, Reggie Lemelin, Bob Beers, Steve Rooney, Guy Larose, Quintin Brickley, and Mike Boccuzzi.
Former Boston Bruins players, left, sign autographs during last year’s fundraiser at the Amelia Park Ice Arena. (Staff Photo)
In addition to the game itself, there will be an autograph session with former Bruins’ players, and raffles for sports memorabilia, as well as food and drinks.
A clinic for youth hockey players will be held prior to the game.
All proceeds from the charity event help fund the Local 1111, which is comprised of local firefighters and EMTs.
“The coffers are getting dry,” Neilsen said, pleading for assistance from the public. “This money is turned right back around.”
Contributions are used to sponsor various local youth sports, the Westfield High School band, and other community-oriented events.
