The Augustana Vikings Hockey Alumni Association is once again hosting their annual alumni weekend February 8th and 9th. Since the formation of the Alumni Association in 2016 this event has raised in excess of $45,000 for the hockey program.

The weekend's festivities begin on Friday night at 7:30 pm as the Augustana Vikings Men's hockey team take on the Briercrest Clippers. Alumni can pick up their alumni weekend packages; enjoy refreshments and appetizers in the alumni room and enjoy the game while reminiscing with old teammates.

Saturday the alumni room will once again be open for coffee and muffins prior to the alumni game starting at 10AM. After the game family and friends are encouraged to participate in the annual family skate. A complimentary lunch will be provided for participants and their families at the conclusion of the family skate.

The Augustana Vikings will once again be hosting the Briercrest Clippers at 2 PM. The Alumni room will remain open for family and friends to enjoy refreshments, share stories and enjoy the game.

Prior to puck drop the Alumni Association will be holding their annual general meeting for those wishing to catch up on all things relating to the Alumni Association.

The weekend concludes at Boston Pizza with a live band, silent auction and live auction.

President of the Alumni Association Tyler Bellamy stated "Every year I look forward to Alumni weekend; Augustana played a big part in my life, this is one weekend where I get to re-connect with old teammates and friends. I also think it's extremely important that we as hockey alumni help support the current program; a small donation, a fun weekend playing hockey with old friends and reminiscing has a huge impact on the current team and players. I think we have done a good job of that in our first three years and would like to see it grow in the future. Currently we are funding or partially funding $15,000 in scholarships and contribute approximately $20,000 to $25,000 to the operating budget. Specifically, we purchase all of the teams off ice apparel, jerseys, sticks, visors, pants and fund the recruiting. This would not be possible if not for those alumni that attend these events and donate to the program. It's always an enjoyable weekend and it's great to talk to guys who played in the 80's and 90's and hear how their stories are similar to mine and the lasting impressions playing hockey for Augustana has had on all of us."

When Tyler was asked why he takes on the role of president he replied "I feel that I owe it to the program, I want to see the players receive the same opportunity that I had, and I want to leave this program in a better position than when I found it. With significant decreases in funding towards athletics' and the recent cuts of programs I think it is fair to say that the hockey program would not be where it is today without our Hockey Alumni Association".

To register for the alumni weekend please contact Tyler at vikingshockeyalumni@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing everyone at the rink!

Submitted by Vikings Hockey Alumni