The Saskatoon Blades will be sporting a new look on Saturday for their game against the Brandon Wheat Kings, in support of the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
The Don Cherry inspired jerseys are part of the Western Hockey League’s partnership with RE/MAX, the Cherry family and the foundation, whose mission is to promote organ donation.
“We’ve worn all kinds of different jerseys but this one is a little special, it’s a good cause and it looks good,” Blades captain Evan Fiala said.
“It’s definitely a good cause, you know I’m a big fan of Don Cherry. It’s going to be a fun night and I’m definitely honoured to be wearing these jerseys,” Blades forward Braylon Shmyr said.
WATCH: The Saskatoon Blades want fans to help them support the Kidney Foundation of Canada as they continue their playoff push.
The jerseys will be auctioned off throughout the evening through a live silent auction and a number of jerseys will also be available through an online auction. The money raised will be going towards the local chapter of the foundation.
“Creating awareness for organ donation in Canada is essential for the more than 4,500 Canadians waiting for a transplant,” said Joyce Van Deurzen, who is executive director of the Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Saskatchewan chapter.
“We are grateful to the Western Hockey League, RE/MAX and the Cherry family for teaming up on this important initiative supporting Canadians whose future depends on others giving them the gift of life.”
Along with the jerseys, the Blades will also be doing a raffle for a Don Cherry replica suit and will be selling Don Cherry bobble heads to help raise money.
“I think with organ donation and kidney donation in the province, it’s something that maybe gets left on the back burner a little bit and doesn’t always get the attention that it needs but this affects a lot of people and hits home for many people right here in our city,” Blades’ manager of communications Tyler Wawryk said.
“So to be able to raise awareness and with the jerseys especially to raise some funds to go towards the local kidney foundation is huge and something we’re proud to be a part of.”
Don Cherry’s daughter, Cindy Cherry, will be at the game as well for a ceremonial puck drop.
The game gets going at 7 p.m. CT at SaskTel Centre.