Veterans jersey auctions add to McCrae statue fund
November 18, 2014
GUELPH, ON — The Guelph Storm Hockey Club is proud to announce that the special ‘Veterans’ jerseys worn on November 9 v. London have brought in a total of more than $14,500 via online auction.
All net proceeds from the sale of these jerseys will be donated to fundraising efforts toward the unveiling of a life-like statue of one of Guelph’s most famous sons, Lt. Colonel John McCrae.
The statue has been commissioned by The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery to Commemorate McCrae’s contributions as a soldier, doctor and poet. 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of McCrae writing his world renowned poem In Flanders Fields.
These special, one-of-a-kind jerseys struck a chord in the Guelph community and beyond, with record numbers being raised in a one-week online auction on the team’s eBay store.
Among the highlights of the overall auction was Tyler Bertuzzi’s #17 jersey, which sold for $1,725. While wearing this jersey on November 9, Bertuzzi set a team record for points in a single game with seven (two goals, five assists). In total, 28 jerseys were featured in the auction.
The Storm would like to thank those who purchased a jersey and participated in the auction for contributing to such a special cause in our community.
The club would also like to thank the entire fundraising committee for not only leading the way on this enhancement to our city, but also for allowing our team to be a small part of the fundraising efforts.
The committee includes the Guelph 11th Field Regiment, along with the Honourable William C. Winegard, Col. Gary Burton, Ms. Ann Guthrie, Mr. Ken Hammill, Mr. Robert Ireland, Lcol. Michael McKay, Mr. Murray Taylor and Ms. Margaret Vanderwoude.
A cheque will be presented at centre ice on “Armed Forces Night” on December 20 v. the Erie Otters.
The statue is scheduled to be unveiled on June 19, 2015 outside the Guelph Civic Museum at 52 Norfolk Street.
The 2014-15 season is presented by RBC Play Hockey.
