SOUTH CENTRAL JAYS GIRLS HOCKEY TO HOST SPECIAL FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF LYDIA HUELSNITZ

The South Central Jays Girls Hockey program is coming together for a cause much bigger than hockey.

On Saturday, November 21, 2026, the South Central Jays will host a special fundraising event at the Waseca Community Arena in support of Lydia Huelsnitz, the older sister of South Central Jays senior hockey player Emma Huelsnitz, as she continues her courageous battle against Stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma.

The community is invited to join the Jays for an afternoon of hockey, generosity, and support, featuring a silent auction and Chuck-A-Puck fundraiser. The puck is scheduled to drop at 12:00 PM, with all fundraising proceeds going directly to the Huelsnitz family.

A Family’s Fight, A Community’s Support

Lydia was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma in late August and began chemotherapy treatments on September 10. Since her diagnosis, she has faced significant challenges, including difficult side effects, fatigue, treatment delays due to low blood counts, and the emotional toll of losing her hair.

Through it all, Lydia has continued to show remarkable strength, courage, and determination. Despite the challenges of treatment, she remains committed to pursuing her dream of becoming an elementary education teacher while continuing to coach and mentor young dancers.

Her younger sister, Emma, has been by her side throughout this journey, supporting Lydia while balancing the responsibilities of her senior year of high school, hockey, work, and family life.

For the South Central Jays hockey family, this is an opportunity to rally around one of their own and remind the Huelsnitz family that they have an entire community standing behind them.

More Than a Game

Hockey has a unique way of bringing people together, and on November 21, the South Central Jays hope to turn that sense of teamwork and community into meaningful support for Lydia and her family.

Fans, families, students, and community members from Waseca, Faribault, and surrounding communities are encouraged to attend the game, participate in the silent auction and Chuck-A-Puck fundraiser, and help make a difference.

Whether you are a hockey fan, a friend of the family, or simply someone who wants to support a young woman facing an incredibly difficult challenge, your presence and generosity can make an impact.

Event Information

Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026

Location: Waseca Community Arena

Puck Drop: 12:00 PM

Fundraising Activities: Silent Auction and Chuck-A-Puck

Beneficiary: Lydia Huelsnitz and the Huelsnitz Family

All fundraising proceeds will go directly to the Huelsnitz family.

Those unable to attend but wishing to contribute can make a direct donation using the QR code provided on the event flyer.

For questions or additional information, please contact Rachel Wetzel at drwetzel6@gmail.com or 507-380-6414.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The South Central Jays invite everyone to fill the Waseca Community Arena on November 21, not just to cheer on the team, but to show Lydia and the entire Huelsnitz family the strength and compassion of our communities.

Because some things are bigger than hockey, and no one should have to face a battle like this alone.