The Odyssey Trust is proud to announce the resounding success of Hospice Hockey – its charity ice hockey event in support of Northern Ireland Hospice. Held at The SSE Arena, Belfast, the special event brought together the local community, past and present ice hockey players, and well-known faces from across Northern Ireland and beyond, raising a remarkable £109,692 for the Hospice’s vital work.
Forming part of The Odyssey Trust’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Hospice Hockey saw current and former Belfast Giants take to the ice in an exhibition game alongside a host of names from the sporting and entertainment worlds, including New Jersey Devils’ head coach Sheldon Keefe; Premier League legend Petr Čech; former Ulster Rugby and Ireland international back Craig Gilroy; Blue Lights star Siân Brooke; and Derry Girls’ Jamie-Lee O’Donnell. The one-of-a-kind game attracted a capacity crowd for a unique night of generosity and support.
Comprised of The SSE Arena, Stena Line Belfast Giants, W5 Science & Discovery Centre, and W5 LIFE, The Odyssey Trust is the charity that was established to oversee the investment in and management of Northern Ireland’s Millennium project. Guided by its charitable objectives of improving social welfare and life opportunities for the people of Northern Ireland, The Odyssey Trust set out to raise as much money as possible for Northern Ireland Hospice across the weekend of the event.
Martin McDowell, Chair of The Odyssey Trust, said:“The success of Hospice Hockey reflects the very best of what can be achieved through collaboration, generosity, and community spirit. We are deeply moved by the support shown by everyone involved, from the organisers and volunteers whose tireless efforts made the event possible to our partners, suppliers, and the thousands of spectators who came together to make the night truly special.”
Funds were raised through ticket sales, merchandise, online raffles, in-game fundraising activities, generous donations, and a special gala dinner held the previous evening at the Belfast Harbour Commissioners Office. All proceeds will directly support Northern Ireland Hospice, which provides specialist palliative care to over 4,000 babies, children, and adults each year.
The celebratory event spanned a full day of activities, as service users of Northern Ireland Hospice and their families were welcomed to The SSE Arena for a private skate session in the morning, creating lasting memories at the home of the Belfast Giants. Meanwhile, the Junior Belfast Giants were inspired by team talks from sporting legends Sheldon Keefe and David Clarkson before facing off in a U12 vs U14 friendly ice hockey game in the afternoon.
Martin McDowell added: “As the Odyssey Trust celebrates its 25th anniversary, this event stands as a powerful testament to the values that have shaped our journey. More than a fundraising milestone, it was an opportunity to stand in solidarity with those facing life-limiting illnesses, and to honour the extraordinary care provided by Northern Ireland Hospice. We are proud to have played our part in such a meaningful cause.”
With fundraising activities still ongoing, the final donation amount will be shared in the coming weeks. For more information about Hospice Hockey or to make an additional donation, please click here.
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