Eagles Kick Off Division Semifinals with Sponsor Appreciation Night

Article by N. Schoonderbeek/Media by C. Archer

Eagles fans…it’s been over a week since we’ve had some game action! This dry spell is about to end on Thursday when our boys face off against the Georgina Ice in the Orr Division playoff semifinal round.

How have you been spending your free time while waiting for the next round of playoffs? If you follow the Eagles on social media (and you should!), you know that our social media manager extraordinaire, Chris Archer, has spent the past week recognizing the many sponsors that the Clarington Eagles are fortunate to have partnered with this season. We will further recognize and celebrate these sponsors at Thursday’s game, which has been designated as our sponsor appreciation night.

“Thanks to all our sponsors, we’re able to run such a successful program at an affordable price for the players,” said assistant general manager and head trainer Craig Wilcox. Most of the young men playing for the Eagles are studying at local post-secondary institutions, are in an apprenticeship program, or are just at the beginning stage of their careers. By sponsoring the team, the players have an opportunity to continue with their high-level athletics, and the community has a team to cheer for. It also allows the team to give back, by mentoring and supporting younger players and participating in vital community programs.

Sponsors also allow for a more engaging hockey experience for our fans, such as chuck-a-puck and raffles. “We have the greatest fans in the world! We’re very lucky to have such an amazing following within the community,” said Wilcox, who hopes that fans will support our sponsors who give so generously. “They’ve given to us, and the easiest way to give back to them is to promote them and use their business when possible. It’s how a small community should operate.”

Paul Strong, owner of NorthEx Cargo and Customs Services, has been an Eagles’ jersey sponsor for two years. This year he is sponsoring jersey #18, which is worn by forward Leyton Aitken. “I like to sponsor players with a personal connection such as Leyton, whom I coached for many years in the Clarington Toros AAA program,” shared Strong. “This keeps me connected to our local hockey community, which has been an important part of my life.”

Aitken appreciates the significance of his jersey sponsor. “He was my first rep coach, and every time I put the jersey on I acknowledge the part he played in my hockey success,” said Aitken. “It makes me proud to represent his company. Thank you Coach Paul and NorthEx!”

Is your organization considering sponsorship of the Clarington Eagles? You definitely don’t need a personal connection to get involved. Get in touch with us, and we would be thrilled to talk about how we can partner with your organization.

“We were lucky to get sponsors for all our jerseys, a new skate sharpener, and more this season. Heck, we even had a beer crested with our logo on it!” said Wilcox.

Introducing Screaming Eagles Beer!!!
Get out to the Beer Garden tonight to try it. pic.twitter.com/77AuGusDgT

— Clarington Eagles (@EaglesPJHL) September 15, 2022

Please join us on Thursday evening at 7:25pm at Rickard Arena in Bowmanville to celebrate this season’s sponsors. Then watch as our boys start what is sure to be a second clean sweep in playoffs against the Georgina Ice. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and free for kids under 12 (cash only). We look forward to seeing you there.

*****

THANK YOU EAGLES’ SPONSORS!