Big Brothers Big Sisters hockey tournament raises more than $50K

Members of Team Bell Nexxia after winning the Women's Rec Division Championship at the BBBSOD Hockey Tournament in Orillia, Ont., on Sun., Jan 19, 2025 (CTV News/Chris Garry)

The annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orillia and District (BBBSOD) hockey tournament wrapped up in Orillia on Sunday, raising more than $50,000 in support of BBBSOD.

The three-day tournament welcomed 25 teams from across Ontario, with donors helping raise a record amount in the tournament’s history of 15-plus years.

“We’re really excited to announce that this year is our biggest year yet,” confirmed Miranda Chaffey, executive director of BBBSOD. “$45,000 was our goal to raise and we have exceeded $50,000 as of [Sunday] morning.”

BBSOD serves nearly 350 kids annually through their mentoring programs, which will get supported from the funds raised by the hockey tournament.

Chaffey says there are almost 50 kids on their waiting list.

“Some of our kids wait three to four years for a mentor,” she said. “The more funds we’re able to raise, the more capacity our team has to get those kids served quicker.”

Sarah Boddy has been participating in the tournament for than ten years. Her Bell Nexxia team won the women’s rec division.

“It’s a great tournament for a great cause and we just grab a bunch of the girls from our league and come out and have a good time,” said Boddy.

Chaffey adds that BBBSOD relies on local donors and those who volunteer their time.

“We aren’t government funded, so all of our proceeds that we receive, and all of our programing is fully funded by our community,” explained Chaffey. “Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to provide these programs in our community for these local youth.”