Boots & Hearts Barn Burner Charity Hockey Game returns for 18th year

The Boots and Hearts Barn Burner charity hockey game will return to the Sadlon Arena in Barrie for a good cause this summer, marking its 18th year on the ice.

Local celebrities, NHL and PWHL hockey players and retired hockey players will lace up their skates to raise money for local charities.

Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall said its an exciting time when all the stars come together.

“When you have 4,000 kids and families just out to see NHL and PWHL talent, you’re not going to be able to see here in the City of Barrie regularly,” said Nuttall. “It just it lights a place up.”

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Isaak Phillips and New York Sirens forward Jessie Eldridge both grew up in Barrie and will be participating in the event.

“I played Barrie minor hockey my whole life and I was a kid going to East Bayfield for the tryouts, just the same as all the kids that were going into the stands to watch us play,” said Phillips. “It is an honour and super cool to be apart of it.”

The fundraiser has supported multiple local organizations over its 18-year history raising almost $2 million dollars in the process. Beneficiaries include the RVH Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), John Tavares Foundation‘s programs for kids, PIE Education, Rotary Club and more.

“Especially in our NICU our newest families and our littlest patients, that need is growing, and so it’s great to see this event, which is one of the biggest and best in Simcoe County, really puts Barrie here on the map,” said Katie Dewar, manager donor advertising at the RVH Foundation.

Last year the event raised more than $408,000 for local causes. Organizers hope to surpass that milestone this year trying to raise $500,000.

“If we can do just a little bit more each year to allow for, obviously more families who have children, more children who are maybe being born prematurely or with some complications to be able to get the services and supports here in the community,” said Nuttall.

Fundraising to support the local community and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

“There’s going to be kids who are sitting in the stands right now, just like Isaak was, who are going to be playing in the game a decade from now,” the mayor said. “It’s a huge opportunity for our community, and we’re we’re super excited about it.”

The puck drops Wed., Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now.