ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) — On July 27th, 2024, Racker will be hosting their annual exhibition game to benefit Racker’s Early Childhood Service Program.

Racker, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide care and proper resources for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is now in their tenth year of putting on the Racker Rivals Big Red hockey game. Since the first annual game in 2014, Racker has raised over $1.2 million, all of which has gone to various facets of the Early Childhood Services Program.

The game will be at Lynah Rink on Cornell campus, and will start at 4 p.m. Before the game starts, there will be a family and friends free skate from 2:30-3:30. Tickets to the game are free of charge.

Executive Director of Racker Cris Donavan and Director of Community Relations and Development Bob Brazill agree that the event brings much needed positive attention to Racker, and specifically their Early Childhood Services Program. “It helps reminds the community that we’re there,” says Brazill.

The game itself is comprised of players with various affiliations with Cornell and the community, including former Cornell hockey players, prominent business owners, and many more. Before the game, player pledging is available and makes up about 50% of the revenue brought in for the game. Mike Schafer, Joe Nieuwendyk, and Anthony Angello are among just a few of those who are playing this year. For information on this year’s lineup and how to pledge or donate, click here.

“The kids get really excited about it, a lot of the kids that come play hockey and love seeing the former Cornell hockey players come back,” says Donavan. Kids also get the opportunity to get on the ice during the halftime intermission, which allows for even more involvement for young hockey enthusiasts. Considering that the game takes place in July, being at the ice rink also helps to offer some respite from the heat.

“There’s usually about sixty to eighty volunteers that participate and help run the game, which is really a testament to the community and the fact that people want to be there,” Brazill remarks.

To learn more about Rackers and their mission, make sure to visit their website.