As hockey fans, we often focus on the on-ice performance of an organization. They are professional athletes and should be judged on their performance. But, there is an aspect of sports that is often overlooked: how they give back to their community. It often isn’t headlining the news, which results in a lack of awareness on the impact teams can have in their community.
For those who were unaware, the Blue Jackets Foundation has been around since the team’s inception in 2000. The Foundation’s belief is to focus on the health and wellness of children in central Ohio. The primary pillars of the Foundation is fighting against pediatric cancer, promoting the health and safety of central Ohio youth, education through literacy, and growing youth hockey in central Ohio.
The largest fundraising event for the Foundation is the annual Cannonball, which was held this past Wednesday (2/19). This event is a party/gala that raises money through donations, ticket sales, and a silent auction to directly benefit the children of central Ohio.
This was my first time attending such an event and I was thoroughly impressed.
All of the players, coaches, and management group was in attendance. The food, drink, and entertainment were first class. The best part was the team honoring four children who were going through health struggles. All these honorees have been directly impacted by the Blue Jackets Foundation. Graham, Natalie, Bryce, and Zavier: You’re all heroes.
In a speech to the attendees, Don Waddell put it best: “With great privilege, comes great responsibility.” The players, coaches, and staff all get to play or be part of a game for a living. They have a tremendous privilege to get paid to be part of a game. But with that privilege, the team has a responsibility to take care of those who support them. That’s the city and its fans. That’s the 5th Line.
By raising money and directly impacting our youth, the organization truly shows that it cares about its fanbase as much as the 5th Line cares about the team. But let me be clear: this isn’t about hockey. It’s about people supporting people. It’s about community. It’s about loving your neighbor. This organization truly cares about our city. And for that, the Blue Jackets are a championship level organization.
As of 2/21, the total money raised from the Cannonball was not announced. In season’s past, this event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars. Since 2000, over $15 million dollars has been raised for the youth of central Ohio. Regardless of any on-ice performance, this is a tremendous accomplishment. I must tip my hat to the entire Blue Jackets family for the outstanding act of love.
Bravo, Blue Jackets. Bravo.
Also…on a side note…I had no idea that Dave Maetzold could move so well on the dance floor. Yes, I saw you Maetz!