Raiders to Launch 2012 Autism Awareness Project

HAMILTON, N.Y. – The Colgate women's hockey team will kick off its second annual Autism Awareness Project during its home contest against Union on Feb. 3 at Starr Rink.
 
The project, which was first launched in January, 2011, was created in support of team manager and avid Colgate women's hockey fan, Kati Williams, a local teenager from Norwich, N.Y. Kati has Asperger's Syndrome, which is an autism spectrum disorder that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.
 
“We are really excited to kick off our 2012 Autism Awareness Project and are hoping to build on the success we had in 2011,” stated head coach Scott Wiley. “Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. in which there is no cure or medical detection. Our goals are to continue to raise awareness, educate Colgate and surrounding communities about autism, and raise funds to assist local and national agencies that support people and families that are managing autism.”
 
Last season, the team partnered with Autism Speaks U and established a Colgate chapter to support the work of Autism Speaks, North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization. The Raiders raised over $18,000 for their chosen charities, increased awareness through their outreach programs, and helped educate Colgate and surrounding communities about autism. They also took part in the Walk Now for Autism event and were recognized by the National Hockey League (NHL) for their efforts at the 2011 Face-Off for a Cure gala in April. Most recently the team was also recognized for its efforts by the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League (AHL) on Dec. 3.

This year, the women's hockey team is looking to build on the momentum it created in 2011 by adding new and exciting elements to the project through new partnerships and initiatives. The Raiders' goals are to raise $30,000, broaden their outreach efforts, and provide resources and networking for people on the autism spectrum.
 
The money raised through the project will go to Autism Speaks of Central New York, the Family Resource Network, The Kelberman Center, The OZ Project, and the American Special Hockey Association (ASHA).