Dover AFB to challenge McGuire AFB in second annual charity ice hockey match

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Steve Lewis
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del, --  It's time once again for the Dover Air Force Base All-Stars to take to the ice against their returning rivals, the McGuire AFB All-Stars, at noon, Jan. 31, at the Wachovia Spectrum in Philadelphia. 

This second annual charity ice hockey fundraiser benefits the Combined Federal Campaign and the Air Force Assistance Fund, which aims to support military families in need. 

Team Dover defeated McGuire AFB in last year's match up and will be facing their opponents this year with new additions to their lineup. 

"It's going to be different from the 9-4 win we had last year," said Lt. Col. Nicholas Koski-Vacirca, 512th Maintenance Group. 

Colonel Koski-Vacirca, the Dover AFB All-Stars goalie, said five team members from last year's team are not returning for this match, bringing a new dynamic to the All-Stars line-up. The team is comprised of active-duty, reservists and civilians from the 436th and 512th Airlift Wings.

Despite the change in the team roster, Dover's goal to help others in need is no different this time around. The Dover and McGuire teams worked to raise money for the CFC and AFA by selling tickets to the game. All of the net proceeds will be donated to both of these organizations. 

So far, Dover has sold about 140 tickets with more still being reserved for the match, said Senior Master Sgt. Donald Kimball, 712th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. He said both teams have similar goals to sell over 200 tickets this year. 

"We really appreciate the folks who are buying tickets and giving their support," said Sergeant Kimball, who helped Colonel Koski-Vacirca organize the annual hockey match. 

Colonel Koski-Vacirca said he was especially pleased about the support everyone has provided so far, despite the current economic conditions of the country. He said although many people are experiencing trouble themselves, it's great they're still giving to others in need. 

Although limited ticket quantities are available for the match on Jan. 31, they can still be purchased for $15. Ticket reservations can be made by sending an email to don.kimball@dover.af.mil.