The relationship between athletes and the communities they call home is a strange one. It wavers, based on the level of play being put forth by the athletes, or the personalities on the team, but for the most part, fans love to love their team.
But the second the team starts to under perform fans will have no problem letting them know about it, and that is why forging a strong relationship outside of the game is so important.
This call to duty to do more than entertain, to give back to the community is what separates the great organizations from the good, and the role models from the everyday athletes.
This is something the Prince Rupert Rampage are doing an excellent job of. Even though they have played strong through their first nine games, their contributions off the ice have been much greater.
The Rampage are Rupert, you can go to any game and see the love of hockey and in particular, this team is ingrained in this city. The roars of the crowd often drown out the goal horn, and this season the horn has had its fair share of work.
The team is clicking and is pouring in goals at home, but with every elated collective celebration as the puck crosses the line, there is more to celebrate.
Because every time that puck tickles the twine, or just barely squeaks across the line, the community wins. Yes, they get to cheer for their Rampage, but the team also donates 100 dollars to charity for every home goal scored. Simply amazing.
The fact that they score six goals a game definitely helps the cause, but it doesn’t end there.
This past week they did more community events, like Reading with the Rampage, and Skating with the Rampage which allows young fans to connect and spend time with the team. They also visited a retirement home, giving their eldest fans a chance to meet the players.
These are things that make the Rampage more than just a hockey team, the things that make them a part of Rupert.
Prince Rupert is lucky to have such a stand up organization like the Rampage.
READ MORE: Prince Rupert Rampage rout Kitimat Ice Demons
nick.laws@thenorthernview.com
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