Steel Team Up With Chicago Blackhawks For Gently Used Equipment Drive
Story By: Amanda Schmidt
Bensenville, IL (October 30th, 2009) -  The Chicago Steel will team up this fall with the Chicago Blackhawks to host a "gently used" hockey equipment drive, with drop boxes set up at both The Edge in Bensenville and The United Center in Chicago. The fundraiser will provide safe, appropriate gear for those unable to afford the high prices of hockey equipment, ultimately allowing more athletes to continue their hockey careers.

The first chance to donate will be Monday November 9th at The United Center, when the Blackhawks take on the Los Angeles Kings for a 7pm game. Members of the Blackhawks Ice Crew and mascot, Tommy Hawk, will greet donators at the collection bins, placed outside Gates 2 & 3 and Gates 7 & 8 between 6pm-7:30pm. Additionally, the first 100 donors will receive a Blackhawks prize.

Steel fans will also have an opportunity to donate in their hometown, as The Edge will set up collection bins outside the Steel’s Friday November 20th game against Waterloo. Donators will have the opportunity to meet current Steel players, Rusty the mascot, and, Head Coach and Blackhawks Alumni, Steve Poapst.

The Blackhawks and Steel will be accepting the following equipment: skates, gloves, elbow pads, shin pads and goalie gear. Due to health concerns, helmets should not be donated. Furthermore, the equipment should be clean and in good condition.

For more information on donating or to advance purchase tickets for Steel home games, including the November 20th game, please call (630) 594-1162    

After a four game away streak, the Steel will take on the Cedar Rapids Roughriders at home this Friday, October 30th, at 7:35pm. The Steel will then travel to Cedar Rapids the following evening, Saturday October 31st, to conclude the weekend series against the Roughriders.