Battles between the Trenton Golden Hawks and Wellington Dukes always mean more than games against others.
On November 27, 2020 it held even more true, as the two clubs played with the goal of supporting our military and honouring a former Quinte West resident.
The Dukes and the Trenton Golden Hawks played Game 7 of the Hasty Ps Cup, and the G-Hawks wore Snowbirds jerseys, honouring the late Captain Jenn Casey.
Casey, who lived in Quinte West for six years, was the Public Affairs Officer for the Snowbirds Aerobatics team (RCAF), and was a driving force behind “Operation Inspiration”.
The team flew coast to coast to raise the spirit of Canadians dealing with the issues of COVID-19. On one of the final days of the trip, Casey and Pilot Captain Richard MacDougall had engine failure and they crashed in British Columbia. MacDougall suffered serious injuries and Casey died. The entire country mourned the loss of a great Canadian.
“Out of this tragedy, the team wanted to do some good. We contacted Jenn’s family, and her life partner Scott (Captain Scott Boyd – Snowbirds) and told them what we wanted to do,” says Director of Business and Casey’s friend Tim Durkin. “We then reached out to artist Dave O’Malley who designed a sweater both the team and the family were proud of. Former Snowbird Captain Dan Dempsey and the military worked with us to put together a wonderful day and game.”
Golden Hawks Director of Operations John McDonald says, “The Wellington Dukes, QW Mayor Jim Harrison and CAO David Clazie, arena officials, members of CFB Trenton, and political dignitaries joined our effort to honour Captain Casey. With the arena closed due to COVID-19, YourTV (Cogeco 4/700) was critical in having the day go off without a hitch.”
During the live game broadcast, videos aired from Casey’s partner Scott Boyd, her stepfather, father, Colonel Chris Hadfield, the Premier, and more. Musician Miss Emily (Emily Fennell Taylor), along with Gord Sinclair and Paul Langois of The Tragically Hip, performed one of Casey’s favourite songs, “Wheat Kings”.
Each sweater worn in the game was purchased and auctioned off. They were shipped across Canada. An additional 100 (non-game-worn) jerseys, and signed team photos were also sold.
McDonald says, “The team is proud to announce $15,000 has been raised, with the money earmarked for Support Our Troops (note – Support Our Troops provides assistance to help military members and their family cope with challenges arising from military service). The Casey family selected Soldier On, under the Support Our Troops umbrella.”
“We are incredibly appreciative and moved by this gesture by the Trenton Golden Hawks and those who generously purchased jerseys,” says Scott Johnson, Associate Vice President of Corporate Development for Support Our Troops. “The Snowbirds’ Operation Inspiration was intended to encourage Canadians that better times lie ahead. We are honoured and touched by the ongoing support that our country continues to show towards our Canadian Armed Forces community throughout this pandemic. This donation will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of our ill and injured members.”
BGen Dyrald Cross, Commander Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group says,”We are incredibly humbled that the family of Captain Jennifer Casey chose Soldier On as the recipient of the Trenton Golden Hawks’ initiative and generous donation in honour of Captain Casey. Soldier On is the most direct way of supporting ill and injured veterans and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces. This donation will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many Soldier On members and their families as they strive to adapt, overcome and Soldier On.”
Trenton Golden Hawks Coach and General Manager Peter Goulet emphasized the day’s significance to the community. “The players not only understood the importance of the game, but what it symbolized as well. This was someone who meant a lot to the Quinte region, her Halifax and Moose Jaw communities, and the military. It was a wonderful experience to be a part of, and I know it is something these young men will remember for years to come. I know I will.”
Before leaving for the military, Jenn Casey worked at Quinte News, Mix 97, Rock 107, and CJBQ.
SUBMITTED TO QUINTE NEWS
Director of Operations John McDonald and Director of Business Tim Durkin of the Trenton Golden Hawks
