Kilmarnock Storm forward Ross Andreucci says the support he received for a charity ice hockey match organised in aid of two vital neonatal units was “overwhelming”.

The event, which featured players past and present from across Scotland, raised a staggering £5,443 for the Crosshouse and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Neonatal Units.

Both facilities helped save his daughter’s life after she was born prematurely.

Andreucci, a member of the 2013 Paisley Pirates’ championship winning side, said he was humbled and amazed by the amount raised.

“I felt a simple ‘thank you’ to the people who gave Millie the care she needed during the first few months of her life was insufficient after all they’d done for her,” he said.

“She was so small – it was months before we got her home, and I had to do something to recognise all that they did for her.

“I spoke to a few folk I know in the ice hockey world and the response was just overwhelming.

“So many people wanted to play or help out with some of the jobs which needed to be done to make a game take place.

“It really was a humbling experience to have so many folk wanting to take part in the event.

“It’s also true to say I’ve got a far greater appreciation of what it takes to run an ice hockey club now. I was a nervous wreck in the days and weeks leading up to the game.

“I’ll never be able to properly thank all the folk who helped make the event an overwhelming success – from those who baked and sold cakes on the day, to those who donated items for an auction, the players who turned up to play and those who came to watch the game.

“We had an attendance which a few clubs would be happy to see at their games, and it just goes to show that the ice hockey community really does turn out in numbers to support one of their own.

“They made the event the success it was and I just want them to know I’ll never forget their generosity.

“I’ve already been asked if I’m running another event next year, so the work for that one is already underway.

“After the success of this year’s inaugural match, I’m hoping to make the next one even bigger and better.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)