U of G president Franco Vaccarino, left, faces off with Rich Moccia for a ceremonial puck-drop at the annual pick-up hockey marathon organized by Rich and Scott Moccia, who’s holding a puck. Co-op student Hayley Whitehouse wears the United Way Everyday Hero costume to promote this year’s fundraising campaign. Photos by Kevin Gonsalves
U of G president Franco Vaccarino, left, faces off with Rich Moccia for a ceremonial puck-drop at the annual pick-up hockey marathon organized by Rich and Scott Moccia, who’s holding a puck. Co-op student Hayley Whitehouse wears the United Way Everyday Hero costume to promote U of G’s  United Way campaign. Photos by Kevin Gonsalves

This afternoon, U of G’s twin-pad arena hosted a four-hour pick-up hockey marathon organized by United Way co-chair Rich Moccia and his son, Scott, as a fundraiser for the University’s annual United Way campaign.

The event involved 34 players, four 50-minutes games, and a shoot-out competition – and raised more than $3,000 for the United Way.

“It’s pond hockey, so no rules, no referees, no fighting, just lots of laughter and skating. We’re all Canadians, we all love hockey, and we’re raising money for a good cause,” said Moccia, associate vice-president, research (strategic partnerships). Scott is a business and project analyst for the Ontario Veterinary College.

Both Moccias are U of G alumni and have played together in the pick-up tournament for several years. Rich has been helping to organize the event since 2008. This year’s players included faculty, students, staff, alumni and U of G friends.

Most participants also volunteer around Guelph with shelters, food banks and other agencies receiving United Way Support. “So organizing the event to support the United Way was an easy choice,” Moccia says.

The hockey challenge was supported by the Department of Athletics; Gryphs Sports Lounge; Tom Sevier, owner of Darby Sportswear Inc.; Gatorade Inc.; U of G’s First Response Team; and the registration team of Sandra Moccia and Mary Visser Kerr.

Hockey Players SIZED