In an innovative and charitable initiative, the Albert Renegades of the Old Dirty Boys Hockey League (ODBHL) held a player auction this past weekend, with all proceeds going toward covering registration fees for local minor hockey players across Albert County. General Manager John Nason spearheaded the event, offering both pro and farm team players up for auction in a community-driven effort to support youth hockey development.
The event saw an enthusiastic crowd of local auctionees from all corners of Albert County, with hockey fans and community members alike bidding on exclusive experiences with their favorite Renegades players. The funds raised will directly benefit local minor hockey families, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent young players from participating in the sport.
“We’re a team that understands the importance of giving back to the community,” said GM Nason. “This auction is a great way to connect our players with the fans while raising money for a cause that’s close to all of us. Minor hockey is the foundation of everything we do, and if we can help kids get on the ice, then we’ve done our job.”
The player list for the auction was star-studded, featuring names from both the Renegades' pro and farm teams. Fans had the chance to bid on exclusive meet-and-greets, signed memorabilia, and even practice sessions with players like Jack Eichel, Ryan O’Reilly, and Tim Stutzle.
From the pro roster, standout players like Jack Eichel, Taylor Hall, and Adam Fox were among those auctioned off. The Renegades' rising stars—such as Quinn Hughes, Owen Power, and Matthew Boldy—were also major attractions, drawing significant interest from fans eager to meet some of the brightest talents in the ODBHL. In total, the Renegades' entire pro team, including top goaltenders Igor Shesterkin and Tristan Jarry, participated in the auction.
On the farm team side, young prospects like William Eklund, Shane Pinto, and Jesper Wallstedt also featured prominently, providing fans a chance to interact with the future of the Renegades organization. Eklund, who recently made a splash with the Renegades after being called up from the CFB Chatham Lynx, was one of the most popular names on the list.
Adding a special touch to the event was long-time Lynx player Chris Tierney, who recently announced his retirement after a ten-season career in the ODBHL system. Tierney, who helped guide the Lynx to their first Tiger Cup victory in Season 4, has been a fan favorite throughout his career. His auction segment offered fans a rare opportunity to meet the retired legend and bid on a signed jersey that will go down in the team’s history.
Tierney’s participation added emotional weight to the event, with many fans eager to show their appreciation for the veteran forward. “It’s an honor to be part of something that supports the next generation of players,” said Tierney. “Hockey has given me so much, and this is a great way to give back.”
The auction was a rousing success, with a portion of the proceeds earmarked to cover registration fees for underprivileged youth in Albert County, ensuring that aspiring hockey players can access equipment, coaching, and ice time regardless of financial limitations.
“This kind of community support means everything,” said one local minor hockey coach in attendance. “The Renegades are not just about winning games; they’re about building a strong future for the game in our region. Events like this make a big difference for families.”
The event concluded with General Manager Nason expressing his gratitude to the fans and players alike. “This auction represents what the Renegades are all about—community, passion, and the love of the game. We’re incredibly proud of the turnout and can’t wait to see the positive impact these funds will have on local hockey.”
With an impressive display of talent and community spirit, the Albert Renegades player auction was not only a unique event but one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for the next generation of hockey players in Albert County.
9/30/2024 - 655 words
