The Eddie Bush Arena in Collingwood hosted the Battle of the 26 on Saturday, January 25th; a massive tournament in support of Home Horizon. The tournament pitted Collingwood A teams against Barrie A teams for a true “Highway 26” rivalry.

The tournament brought roughly 1500 participants, family members and spectators together, all on efforts to raise funds and support for Home Horizon, Southern Georgian Bay’s local youth shelter and support charity.

Home Horizon provides youth experiencing homelessness with critical supports like lodging, school and job placement, meal distribution services, and more. At present, the charity is in great need of tents for youth who are living on the streets, so this tournament specifically targeted that initiative. Each participating team donated ten tents to the charity, with a goal of donating 100 tents total.

Avery Rys, event organizer and local youth herself, comes from a long line of fundraisers in her family, and she is proud to he taking up the mantle with this event. As a former hockey player herself, she recognizes how lucky so many youth are to play the sport, and wanted the opportunity to give back to youth in her community who are less fortunate.

To learn more about Home Horizon and to get involved, visit https://www.homehorizon.ca/