NHLers join the fun

Photo: Dean Francks

Up to 15 current and former NHL players are expected to take part in this year's Fitness for Families Hockey Challenge in Vernon June 10 and 11.

Put on by the North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society, the fun family event pairs kids and adults with professional players in a series of games on the Saturday – and it is all for free, said Dean Francks, NOYFSS director of business and fund development.

The players include Dave Oliver, formerly with the Dallas Stars, Ottawa Senator star Curtis Lazar and Brent Gilchrist, a Stanley Cup champion and former Detroit Red Wing.

Francks and Oliver are best friends.

“When Dave retired, we brainstormed about what kind of event we could do together to benefit NOYFSS and have fun in the community.”

This is the sixth year the Fitness for Families challenge has taken place.

On the Friday evening, the NOYFSS Social is held.

“It is our signature fundraising event of the year,” said Francks.

The funds go to skill-building and educational programs for children, youth and families, and all the programs are free, said Francks.

“It is a fun evening with live music and hockey players. We have a great live and silent auction.”

Tickets for the event being held at the Vernon Golf and Country Club are $60 each and are selling out.

For more information or to buy tickets, call 250-545-3572 or email [email protected].