SIJHL commissioner Bryan Graham (left) presents the league’s 2nd Annual Community Service Award to Dryden GM Ice Dogs president Michael Sveinson (right)
THUNDER BAY, Ont. – The Superior International Junior Hockey League announced Friday that the Dryden GM Ice Dogs have been named the recipient its second annual SIJHL Team Community Service Award.
This honour is presented annually by the SIJHL and goes to a member organization in recognition of their involvement in their respective community in terms of public service, non-profit events and overall involvement in various charitable events and functions.
During the 2018-19 season, Ice Dogs players, staff and board members provided nearly 1,700 hours volunteering their time and being associated in community projects, in many areas, ranging in time spent in schools, libraries and other fundraising events in Dryden.
In all, the club raised $22,000 for community-based endeavours throughout the season.
Among the events held by the GM Ice Dogs was their Pink the Rink Night, their annual cancer awareness game and fundraiser for the Dryden Regional Health Centre’s oncology unit and the team wearing purple for a game in November in support of and to raise awareness of Violence Against Women prevention month and having staff members on hand from the Hoshizaki House Crisis Shelter for Women.
Also featured were countless hours that featured hospital visits, involvement with minor hockey groups in the community and other civic-related projects.
“The SIJHL is pleased to recognize the Dryden GM Ice Dogs as the recipient of its second annual Community Service Award,” offered league commissioner Bryan Graham.
“An original member of the league, the organization continues to be a vital cog in Dryden and surrounding area and we commend them for their continued efforts in supporting their community,” added Graham.
“The efforts put forth by Ice Dogs’ team president Michael Sveinson and the entire organization year-after-year are to be commended.”
Commissioner Graham also recognized each of the SIJHL’s member clubs for their overall efforts in their respective communities.
“As a league, the SIJHL wholeheartedly supports all of the respective community efforts and initiatives put for by our member clubs, players and their dedicated group of volunteers,” stated Graham.
“We commend each and every one of them for their valuable endeavours in giving back.”
SIJHL Community Service Award recipients
2018-19: Dryden GM Ice Dogs
2017-18: Red Lake Miners