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Most Recent Videos| The Clippers “Stick” it to Alzheimer’s! | | Print | |
| Written by Mark Trozzo |
| Friday, 28 May 2010 14:05 |
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The first weekend in May was a very special time for a Streetsville family, who has learned that their support network is far greater than they ever imagined. Jon Clipperton, one of Streetsville's greatest citizens, passed away last summer after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Honouring his spirit through service, several members of the community joined Don Clipperton (Jon's son) in the formation of the Streetsville Clippers, a hockey team who competed in a tournament in support of Alzheimer's research.
The Scotiabank Pro-Am for Alzheimer's (formerly known as the Baycrest International Pro-Am Tournament) is Canada's largest annual fundraiser for Alzheimer's, having raised more than $7.5 million over four years. After this year's Pro-Am, that total has surpassed the $10 million mark. Gordie Howe joined on this year with the institution of the Gordie & Colleen Howe Fund for Alzheimer's. Proceeds from both events were directed to the Howe Fund with Baycrest receiving significant contributions from the Edmonton and Toronto tournaments. The unique tournament structure shifted the emphasis from scoring goals to fundraising. The Clippers were one of 50 teams to compete in the Toronto tournament, and did Jon proud with a total contribution of $32,404. Good enough for 32nd on the list, the Streetsville Clippers were led by Don Clipperton, who raised an impressive $16 641. According to Clippers teammate Toby Gardiner, Don and former Toronto Maple Leaf Gary Roberts had some serious chemistry and put on a great show. The inclusion of retired NHL'ers added extra incentive for players to try and raise as much money as possible. Every team drafted a former professional, based on their total funds raised. Players like Gary Roberts, Troy Crowder, and Rick Middleton took to the ice to show the amateurs just how much they cared about putting an end to Alzheimer's disease, and to the notion any amateur may have had that they could have been a pro. The Streetsville Clippers welcomed Chris O'Sullivan to their club. Drafted early in the second round of the 1992 NHL draft, O'Sullivan enjoyed seven pro seasons with stops in Calgary, Vancouver and Anaheim. The first overall pick was awarded to The Geri-Hat-Tricks, whose financial contribution (unlike their name) was no joke. The first overall pick garnered $186,866. This was one of four six-figure contributions by teams in the Toronto division. The Streetsville Clippers were largely comprised of local residents/workers. Every player and sponsor was made aware of why the Clippers were formed, and the support was truly inspiring. Jon Clipperton loved so many things – and hockey was definitely one of them. The Streetsville Clippers, through the annual Scotiabank Pro-Am for Alzheimer's, will honour the life of Jon Clipperton while raising valuable funds for Alzheimer's research for many years to come. |
