For the 2^nd year, I am privileged to be playing in the 11 Day Power Play. Last year was a tremendous experience as our squad “Team Roar” raised over $47,000 and the entire 2018 11 Day Power Play raised $1,000,000+

It was fun and humbling to play hockey with life-long friends and in many cases their kids – all in an attempt to raise as much $$ as possible for Roswell Park, Make a Wish and Camp Good Days. They are again this year’s benefactors. While not entirely surprising, the end of our first 4 hour shift was more emotional than exhausting. As the 2^nd highest fundraising team, we played a second (1 hour) shift against the Sabres Alumni and members of the Buffalo Beauts which was unexpected and super cool.

I have many friends and family to thank for helping me reach my goal of $5,000 last year. I had some anonymous donations which was great but did not give me the opportunity to say thank you for your support.

Hockey has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It is a sport that has taught me and countless lifelong lessons. I have the game of Hockey to thank for some of my oldest friends and memories as well as the values, dedication, outlook, and perseverance I’ve learned.

I am extremely proud to again be taking the ice with Team Whistler. I have even more respect for the guys who played in the inaugural 11 Day Power Play and the extraordinary commitment that they made.

This summer, more than 2,500 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2019 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous shifts at Harborcenter in Buffalo, NY. This important event supports The 11 Day Power Play, raising critically-needed funds for cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Camp Good Days and Make-A-Wish WNY. While it is physically challenging to play in a marathon hockey game, it's a walk in the park compared to what most endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make an impact in our community. In the past two years, The 11 Day Power Play has raised nearly $2.5 million supporting cancer causes in Western New York.

Donations are graciously accepted online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4, Buffalo, NY 14223. If you are interested in a sponsorship, contact Sara Schumacher today.

To learn more about the 11 Day Power Play organization, visit www.11daypowerplay.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.