March 13, 2022
The 2022 Checking For Charity was a resounding success!!! The fans returned to the stands, we showcased FOUR fun hockey games, and raised money for several charities!
The primary beneficiary of the 2022 Checking For Charity was Special Olympics of Maine. We were honored to be joined by several Olympians and their enthusiasm was infectious!
Bill David (www.twelvenorthagency.com) and Jeff Mannix (the voice of the University of Maine Men's Hockey) returned to live-stream the event to the world!
The South Portland High School Alumni Challenge saw former Red Riot hockey players square off for another year of bragging rights. The game was a tight affair throughout. Team Red was able to pull away in the final period and take home a 5-2 victory. Garrett Arnold led the way with 2 goals and 2 assists.
We saw the return of the highly popular South Portland Middle School game! No one enjoys playing in front the crowd more then these hockey players. A lot of hard work and smiles made for an exciting game. The score went back and forth but the real winners were the fans! Bolstered by cheering family member, the stands were filled and they brought the noise!
The Firefighter Classic was a battle as always with a mix skill levels and experience. Firefighters from South Portland were joined by firefighters from the surrounding communities. Team White had their legs early and were able to finish many of their chances. Team Red goalie Graham Hart (Haverhill Fire Department, MA) was able to turn several excellent opportunities aside early. Team White kept the pressure on and finished with an 8-2 win. Zack Tooker (South Portland Fire Department, ME) led all scorers with 2 goals and an assist.
The marquee matchup of the day is always the Former Pro Showdown! The fast paced game is always a thrill for all the fans. This year's contest saw a total of SEVEN lead changes! Goalies Brendan Gervais (Team Red- 37 saves) and Mike Fellows (Team White- 38 saves) put on an absolute clinic and stymied numerous chances at each end. Team Red's Travis Ramsey broke a 7-7 tie with less than a minute left with a superb game winner right in front. Team White's Trevor Fleurent led all scorers with 3 goals and 1 assist.
