Springfield Thunderbirds Raise $28,000 for Rays of Hope
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Thunderbirds and the T-Birds Foundation announced a donation of $28,000 to Rays of Hope as a result of proceeds from the live jersey auction and fundraising elements from the T-Birds’ ninth annual Pink in the Rink game on March 7.
Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa, Vice President of Sales & Strategy Todd McDonald, and Managing Partner Paul Picknelly presented a check to Rays of Hope earlier this month at the MassMutual Center. The Thunderbirds’ ninth annual Pink in the Rink game once again served as a powerful centerpiece in the organization’s ongoing fight against breast cancer, raising another impactful total through auctions of the team’s pink-themed, game-worn jerseys. The team also extended its sellout streak with this annual promotion, welcoming a capacity crowd of 6,793 fans for the ninth consecutive Pink in the Rink event.
“Pink in the Rink continues to be one of the most meaningful and cherished traditions in our community and one of the most anticipated days of the year,” Costa said. “Our partnership with Baystate Health and the Rays of Hope continues to bring people together in an incredible show of hope, strength, and support.
“As we now look ahead to our 10th annual Pink in the Rink game next March, there’s a real sense of excitement and pride surrounding what this event has grown into,” he added. “The atmosphere in the Thunderdome is always unforgettable, the personal stories shared throughout the night are incredibly powerful, and the bravery of survivors continues to inspire all of us. We’re already looking forward to making the 10th edition our most impactful yet as we continue supporting the fight for a cure.”
Established during the Thunderbirds’ inaugural 2016-17 season, Pink in the Rink marks the launch of the Rays of Hope fundraising campaign each March, shining a spotlight on breast cancer awareness outside the traditional October awareness month. Each year, those fundraising efforts culminate with the annual Rays of Hope Walk & Run in downtown Springfield each October. Since the tradition began, the Thunderbirds have helped raise more than $200,000 for Rays of Hope, with every dollar staying local in Western Mass. to support patients, families, and the ongoing pursuit of a cure.
“We are so fortunate to have the Thunderbirds as dedicated partners,” said Kathy Tobin, interim Vice President of Philanthropy for Baystate Health. “Each year, Pink in the Rink draws attention to breast cancer and kicks off the Rays of Hope fundraising season, which is critical to our success. Rays of Hope means so much to our survivors, and it’s emotional to see the tremendous community support, led by the Springfield Thunderbirds and their fans.”