Number of Participants: 36
Hours Donated: 1.5
Value of Time Served: $1,879
Event Amount Raised: $2,100
Event Type: Health & Medicine
Activity: Boys Ice Hockey
School: Cazenovia High School
Date: January 13, 2026
Location:
Cazenovia High School
Emory Avenue, Cazenovia
NY
About:
The Cazenovia Lakers proved that hockey can be a powerful force for good, hosting a meaningful Hockey Fights Cancer game that brought together student-athletes, families, and community partners in support of pediatric cancer care.
Held on January 13 at the SUNY Morrisville Iceplex, the Lakers faced off against the Syracuse Cougars in a night that went far beyond the scoreboard. The event raised just over $2,100 for Griffin’s Guardians, a Central New York–based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families navigating a cancer diagnosis. In addition, funds helped cover the cost of Hockey Fights Cancer jerseys, ensuring this impactful event can continue as an annual tradition for years to come.
The Lakers hockey program is a true regional collaboration, with student-athletes representing multiple area schools, including Cazenovia, Chittenango, Canastota, Hamilton, Oneida, Sherburne-Earlville, and Waterville. Approximately 33 hockey players took part on the ice, while three non-hockey student-athletes volunteered behind the scenes—demonstrating leadership and service across programs. Although the team was not seeking volunteer credit, organizers estimate the event generated approximately 40 volunteer hours.
Fans and supporters contributed through several engaging fundraising activities throughout the night, including Chuck-a-Puck, a 50/50 raffle, and raffle baskets, with all proceeds benefiting Griffin’s Guardians. Attendees also learned more about the charity’s mission during the game, reinforcing the purpose behind every dollar raised.
The evening opened with a powerful presentation of the National Anthem by the Madison County Sheriff’s OfficeColor Guard, setting a meaningful and respectful tone for the night. Community businesses also played a key role, with sponsorship support from the Upstate Cancer Center (Verona location), ASAP Dairy Interiors as the charity sponsor, and Integral Hockey as the raffle sponsor.
“This game is about more than hockey,” event organizers shared. “It’s an opportunity for our community to rally together, support pediatric cancer patients, and make a meaningful impact through sports.”
By the final buzzer, the night had accomplished exactly that—uniting athletes and neighbors around compassion, service, and hope. The event’s success has already sparked conversations about expanding the model to other programs, including the possibility of a similar fundraiser for lacrosse.
Cazenovia Hockey’s Hockey Fights Cancer night stands as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when student-athletes lead with heart, using the game they love to support children and families who need it most.
