More Than Hockey - Hershey Bears Hosted Club's First Hockey Fights Cancer Night

On November 4, it was more than just a hockey game for the Hershey Bears. For the first time in the club’s history, the Bears held Hershey Hockey Fights Cancer Night at the Giant Center. Not only did the Bears earn a 2-1 shootout win over the Hartford Wolf Pack, but in front of a crowd of 7,348, the club helped raise funds to help support the fight against this disease that impacts us all.

That evening, the Bears wore lavender Hockey Fights Cancer themed jerseys. The special sweaters were auctioned off post-game with funds benefiting the American Cancer Society and Four Diamonds. The jersey of Colby Williams, a defender from the Bears whose mother beat thyroid cancer, went for a team-high $3,200 at the auction. Additionally, the Bears hosted a Four Diamonds family who were able to meet the players pre-game, and stand on the bench during warm-ups.

Fans took part in the evening’s events, wearing lavender, with many sporting the “FIGHT” t-shirts given away to the first 5,000 fans, courtesy of Penn State Health. Throughout the concourse, the Bears provided “I Fight For” signs, and fans filled them out with the names of friends, family, and loved ones impacted by cancer. During the second period, the club held a “Moment of Fight” as fans held up their signs and showcased just how much this night hit at home for everyone. The night reflected the team's community focus, Bears Cares. 

The evening started with a ceremonial puck drop by Jan Waybright, the wife of the late Randy Waybright, the longtime Hershey head of off-ice officials who recently passed away after battling cancer. During the evening, stories of Hershey staff members and players who have been impacted by cancer were shared on the videoboard. The club also honored defender Logan Pyett, a cancer survivor. Pyett was diagnosed with sarcoma in 2015, and missed two seasons of hockey to fight cancer.

November is Hockey Fights Cancer month, and additional AHL teams are participating in the movement to rally the hockey community to fight this disease. More information may be found at HockeyFightsCancer.com.  #BearsCares #HBH