On Friday, York Hockey raised money for breast cancer research on their annual spirit night. The Dukes took on Loyola Academy, and although the scoreboard reflected defeat, the night ended in success.

“The feel was very electric, and the stands were packed,” said senior Sam Gemini, forward. “It gets everyone on the team fired up. Unfortunately, though, we just couldn’t get enough goals tonight.”

Players hit the ice decked out in pink, while Duke fans packed the stands. The first two hundred students with their ID received a free t-shirt colored pink and green in support of breast cancer and the dukes.

“Spirit night has been insane. Everyone is super excited and hyped,”  said sophomore Sydney Wood. “Have you seen the stands? Everyone is constantly cheering and jumping.”

The gameplay was exciting throughout the night, as the crowd intensified the atmosphere of the game.

“I love all of the people and I love the energy,” said senior Dylan Reynolds. “It hypes me up personally. I love being able to come out to play hockey while also helping people at the same time.” Reynolds was the starting goalie on Friday night for the varsity team.

As a part of spirit night, the organization had 36 themed baskets for raffles and 32 silent

“I think the parents and the board did a very good job setting up for the breast cancer awareness theme,” said head varsity coach, Bruce Turpin. “It’s awesome when all the players, parents, and community rile together to raise funds for cancer awareness like that. I think it reflects well on the organization.”

Although the varsity team ending up losing 4-2 against one of the top-ranked teams in their league, York Hockey was able to spread positivity and awareness for a really great cause.  

“I came to show my spirit to York Hockey and to have a good time with my fellow students,” said junior Liam Parpan. “It was also really cool to be apart of such a great movement.”