September 9, 2009

Quinnipiac to Hold Benefit for Autism Speaks

HAMDEN, Conn. -- The Quinnipiac University men's ice hockey team will once again be out in the community, this time raising funds to benefit autism research. In an effort collaborated with Autism Speaks and the Hamden Police Benevolent Association, the Bobcats will play in a charity softball game on Saturday, September 12 at 6 p.m. at Hamden High School as part of the Quinnipiac University Athletics Positive Play Community Outreach. Quinnipiac will also host several youth hockey organizations on Sunday, Oct. 4 for its exhibition game against University of Prince Edward Island at the TD Bank Sports Center in Hamden, Conn.

"My entire team and I are eager to help out," Quinnipiac head men's ice hockey coach Rand Pecknold said. "We stress community involvement by our student-athletes at Quinnipiac. Last year we raised over $30,000 for children's cancer research. Autism is a disease that affects millions of kids. We're just doing our part to help out."

The softball game on Sept. 12 will be free to the public with donations welcome. In addition to funds collected at the point of entry, Quinnipiac and the Hamden PBA will be holding a raffle featuring commemorative softball jerseys, autographed sticks, t-shirts, hats and limited edition fleece outerwear. Tickets for the area's top college hockey action at the TD Bank Sports Center will also be up for grabs.

On Oct. 4, youth ice hockey teams from the surrounding area will have an opportunity to see the Bobcats' first on-ice competition of the 2009-10 season when they take on Prince Edward Island. The youth players will also be able to skate with the team following the game as part of a "Skate With The Bobcats" event. In addition, the youth teams will have an opportunity to face-off in a series of mini-games on the Bobcats' home ice, a first in Quinnipiac history.

For additional information, please visit the Official On-line home of Quinnipiac Athletics, www.quinnipiacbobcats.com. Bobcat fans can access ticket information on the website or by calling the TD Bank Sports Center Box Office at 203-582-3905.