Both the great game of hockey and the battle against cancer have hit ever so close to home and to my heart, making the 11 Day Powerplay an amazing opportunity to be apart of. 

Who I am playing for:

My father, Gary Crawford was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in January of 2016 and after countless doctor appointments, an intense surgery, and several chemotherapy/radiation treatments I am ever so grateful to say that he is now cancer free! I owe my love of the game of hockey to him as he is largely responsible for my continued passion and involvement. Since I was just a boy I can remember him waking me up at the crack of dawn to drive me to the rink, spending countless hours outside in our backyard to ensure that our outdoor rink was perfect for skating, and supporting myself and my brother every chance he got in the stands whether we were players or coaches.

My Aunt, Amy Luparello continues to battle breast cancer today in a fight that has been ongoing for almost 11 years now. Strong in her faith she possesses an extremely positive outlook on life, which shines brightly through her resilience in her battle. More recently I have come to faith myself and being able to share in our faith is something so special. Understanding that God is in control of our lives is the most liberating realization we can come to. I thank God for placing my Aunt in my life and He continues to work through her in so many ways!
 

We are all affected by the fight against cancer in one way or another so please consider making a donation in some way during the 11 Day Powerplay. 

This summer, more than 1,700 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2018 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous, four-hour shifts at HarborCenter in Buffalo, New York. Each shift will feature two new teams. The purpose of this important event is to raise critically-needed funds for important local cancer causes, including: cutting-edge cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center; supporting programs that improve quality of life for children, adults and families affected by cancer through Camp Good Days; and, granting wishes and amazing experiences to kids with life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, by Make-A-Wish Western New York. Although it may be physically challenging for our players to play four continuous hours of hockey, it will be a walk in the park compared to what some people have to endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make a difference, a big difference. You can help make a big difference by supporting our players' efforts in The 11 Day Power Play Community Shift.

As part of our fundraising efforts, we also offer various corporate sponsorships, providing value greatly in excess of the financial contribution. Please contact Sara Schumacher at sara@11daypowerplay.com or 716-830-3805 for more information. Team sponsorships start at $1,100 and are first come, first serve. 

Proceeds of the 11 Day Power Play Community Shift will benefit our local families while supporting cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Make-A-Wish WNY and Camp Good Days.

Donations are graciously accepted either online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4 Buffalo NY 14223.

Find out more about this event, or the 2017 World’s Longest Hockey Game, at www.11daypowerplay.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.