Players past and present from across the Midlands are set to take part in charity event being held in the memory of one of the region’s most loved supporters of ice hockey.
Solihull Ice Rink will be the venue on Sunday 28th May for the Sam Williams Memorial Game in aid of the Brain Tumour Charity.
Sam was an active member of the Solihull ice hockey community from a young age, but tragically lost her battle to an aggressive form of brain tumour following two years of treatment in 2013.
A previous event raised over £10,000 for the charity and organisers are hoping to top that figure this time around.
Adam Andrews, who iced for Nottingham Lions in NIHL North last season, has been helping to promote this year’s event.
“With Sam’s parents, John and Barbara, being actively involved in ice hockey at Solihull and her brothers, Mark and Roo, playing it was only right we continued to remember her in the only way she would have wanted – at an ice rink, beer in hand and with ice hockey being played in her memory with so many familiar faces,” said Andrews.
“Players from all over the Midlands involved in the game at various levels, along with some coming out of retirement to grace the ice once again, will take part in what will be a fun-filled event in Sam’s memory.
“Hopefully we can raise as much money as possible for a fantastic charity and we hope to see as many people there as possible to support our efforts.”
Players taking part in the game told BIH why they wanted to be involved in the event:
“Sam was a close friend to my wife and spent many a cold night at Hobs Moat cheering on the Barons. Having played against Sam’s brothers myself and knowing how kind and loving Sam was, it’s only right that I jumped at the chance to play in her memory and raise funds for a fantastic charity at the same time.”
“Samantha was an amazing character and an amazing friend loved by all within the hockey community. Being asked to play this charity game in her memory for such a great cause is such an honour and a privilege and what a way to remember a true legend.”
“A true friend. A true lady and the sister I never had. Samantha Williams always will be missed by all.”
“Sam and the Williams family have been part of my life for the past 32 years of playing hockey and also part of many, many others. What an honour it is to have this woman recognised in these events. It just shows what a great close hockey family we are here in Solihull, even though some of us don’t play here anymore. It will always be home and the heart of hockey started with the Williams family and the legacy will carry on for many years to come.
Tickets are priced at Adults (£5), Children (£3), Family – 2 x Adult, 2 x Children (£15). Doors open 5.15pm, face-off is 6.30pm.
