Wilton High School Hockey Teams Host First Back-to-Back Games to Fundraise for ALS Research

Wilton high school’s girls’ and boys’ hockey teams will continue to fundraise for ALS research on Feb. 18 in honor of a WHS parent, Eric Craven, 47, who is living with ALS.

His three children – David, Amanda and Elizabeth – play for Wilton’s hockey teams.

The second #IceALS event on Feb. 18 will take place at SoNo Ice House and will feature the first ever back-to-back WHS girls’ and boys’ hockey games launching special team jerseys and a recognition event in between. The Hamden versus Wilton high school girls’ varsity hockey game will begin at 7 p.m., followed by Norwalk versus Wilton high school boys’ varsity hockey at 8:50 p.m. Combined with the first #IceALS fundraiser the Wilton high school boys’ hockey team held on Jan. 10, the Craven family hopes to surpass their $80,000 goal from both fundraisers.

The Jan. 10 game raised a total of $45,700, with $15,700 received from online and day-of donations and an additional $30,000 that will be donated from corporate sponsors. All proceeds from the Jan. 10 and Feb. 18 games will benefit the ALS Therapy Development Institute (www.ALS.net), the world’s first and largest nonprofit biotech focused 100 percent on ALS research.

“The outpouring from the community has been amazing,” Claire Craven, Eric Craven’s wife said in a press release. “We are so appreciative of everyone’s support and encouragement. Being a fairly introverted person, Eric has never felt so loved and cared for. The community’s generosity along with the kind words so many have whispered into our ears in the midst of hugs and encouragement will long be remembered.”

Additionally, Ryan Hughes, managing partner of SoNo Ice House says, “SoNo Ice House and Penalty Box Pub is honored to host the Ice ALS fundraiser. The Craven family has shown incredible passion for hockey, but most importantly, raising funds for awareness and funds to help find a cure for ALS. We look forward to combining all on Wednesday, Feb.18.”

To learn more about the events and to donate, please visit als.net/craven, and follow on social media via hashtag, #IceALS.

Image via Getty Images

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