A Game With a Purpose
The Wisconsin Windigo will meet the Minnesota Mallards on August 28 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, for an exhibition hockey contest that promises more than just on‑ice competition. The 6 p.m. puck drop will showcase two North American Hockey League squads in a setting that blends sport with community outreach.
All proceeds from the game are earmarked for the Fond du Lac Youth Hockey Association, a local organization that provides youth players with opportunities to develop on and off the ice. The partnership aims to channel financial support into programs that nurture the next generation of hockey talent in the region.
Fundraising will unfold through multiple channels during the event. A portion of every ticket sold will be contributed by the Windigo, while a Chuck‑a‑Puck contest between the second and third periods will direct all sales to the association. Additionally, a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction will generate further revenue, with the association receiving 75 percent of raffle proceeds and half of the auction’s final bids.
The silent auction will feature a curated collection of items, including custom co‑branded jerseys that combine the Windigo and Fond du Lac Thunder youth hockey identities, signed sticks, and assorted memorabilia. These pieces not only offer fans a chance to acquire unique merchandise but also amplify the fundraising impact.
Beyond monetary contributions, the game will provide memorable experiences for young hockey enthusiasts. Six Fond du Lac Youth Hockey players have been selected to join the starting lineup experience, and three youth participants will announce the line‑up after warm‑ups from the dressing room. Following the first period, a local U6 or U8 team will stage a six‑minute mini‑game, giving the youngest fans a chance to step onto the rink.
Through ticket sales, interactive contests, and a host of community‑focused activities, the exhibition serves as a vivid illustration of how professional hockey can give back to the grassroots level. The collaboration between the Windigo, the Mallards, and the Fond du Lac Youth Hockey Association underscores a shared commitment to fostering youth sport and reinforcing the spirit of community engagement.