Number of Participants: 40
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $3,380
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Ice Hockey
Date: February 4, 2024
Location:
North Andover High School
Osgood Street, North Andover
MA
About:
They have 20 athletes assisting alongside a team manager, with the boys team also participating. The children arrive early for the game, aiding in the sale of pucks for the chuck-a-puck fundraiser. During the boys’ game, which precedes, the girls team displays a strong presence among the crowd, making it the most attended hockey game of the season due to their efforts. Each player contributes a local business gift certificate, either purchased or donated, before inviting friends and family to the event. They devote several hours to helping during the actual event.
The proceeds benefit the Matthew Harty Foundation, which supports Mido action, scholarships for deserving North Andover High School graduates, and scholarships for children with mitochondrial disease to attend summer camp activities they otherwise couldn’t afford. Matthew Hardy, who passed away over a decade ago during the hockey season, remains a poignant memory, particularly for his older sister Rebecca, who played on the team during that difficult time. HPNA girls hockey has since been dedicated to the Matthew Harty Foundation. Sometimes, the girls volunteered even during boys’ games, handling ticket collection and serving as greeters. Last year was particularly meaningful as Matthew Harty’s twin sister, Gabby, served as captain of her hockey team. Before the benefit game, Rebecca dropped the puck with Gabby and the captain from Andover High School. On Friday night, Gabby addressed the entire team, emphasizing the importance of the Foundation and sharing memories of her brother, leaving hardly a dry eye among those who knew and loved Matthew. They will try to provide official information on the foundation, which may be available on their website.
