By Kevin J. Sabo For the Independent
The Stettler PeeWee Panthers were stung by the Red Deer Hornets during their regular season game on Oct. 20.
Despite the 38 to 7 game loss, the team did win in the heart. During the Oct. 20 game, the Panthers wore pink socks to raise money for the Stettler Hospice Society and for breast-cancer research.
A table was set up outside of the field house during the game where people attending the game had the opportunity to bid on the game-worn socks.
“It’s something the big-league teams do, so we thought why not us?” said third-year team coach Kevin Shuckburgh speaking about the fundraising idea.
In addition to the charity auction, the team also assisted with the recent Stettler Fire Department Foodbank drive. For Shuckburgh it’s about more than just football, it’s about getting the kids involved in the community.
“If you’re going to be involved, you’re going to be involved,” said Shuckburgh. “It’s not just about football.”
The game socks auction raised nearly $2,300, which will be divided evenly between the Central Alberta Cancer Centre and the Stettler Hospice Society.
With the loss giving the team to a 2-3-1 record for the season and the Central PeeWee Football League Playoffs starting on Oct. 27, the team will drop into the “B” division with their next game taking place Oct. 27 at 11 a.m, with their opponent to be determined.