WATERBURY, CT – (February 5, 2020) – The Post University men’s hockey team will host its Cerebral Palsy Benefit game on Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m. at The Rinks at Shelton when it faces Franklin Pierce.
Prior to the game, the Eagles will have a ceremonial puck drop with All-Star teammate Owen Gallino through Team IMPACT as well as an introduction regarding Cerebral Palsy and Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center.
Team IMPACT is a national non-profit organization that connects children facing serious and chronic illnesses with local collegiate teams.
Owen has Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy, which is one of three different types of spastic Cerebral Palsy, the most common symptom being muscle stiffness. The average age of diagnosis is three years-old. Cerebral Palsy affects three of every 1,000 births in the United States.
The Eagles will be wearing special jerseys for the night, and will be sold during and after the games. All proceeds will be donated to Hidden Acres for children and adults with special needs. There will be a 50/50 raffle and foodbank donation which will all go to Hidden Acres as well.
Hidden Acres, located in Naugatuck, Conn., has been a big part of Owen’s life and helping his road to recovery throughout multiple surgeries. It has helped strengthen his mind and body and has helped him reach new heights. It is more than just a rehabilitation center, it is a place where children and adults explore their potential and strive to meet their personal goals through human and animal bonding.
“We are dedicated to improving the minds, bodies, and spirits of children and adults with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges through the benefits of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities,” Hidden Acres mission statement says.
This is the third straight year the men’s hockey team has hosted a benefit game as it hosted an Autism Awareness game in 2018 and a United Hero’s Military Appreciation game in 2019.
Everyone attending Saturday’s game is asked to donate at least one non-perishable food item at the door.