Team USA will don their alternate third jerseys for all three games (Photo by Rena Laverty)
PLYMOUTH, Mich. - USA Hockey's National Team Development Program and USA Hockey Arena have partnered with the Michigan Veterans Region 9 VCAT to put on the 2022 Heroes Appreciation Weekend. The three-day event will take place from March 18-20 and will be dedicated to supporting and celebrating veterans, active military, military families and all first responders. with complimentary game tickets.
“We are very proud to partner again with the National Team Development Program and USA Hockey Arena and bring back this year's R9VCAT outreach event, the first since 2020," said Dr. Eric Fretz, Chair of the Michigan Veteran Affairs Region 9 VCAT. "We can't think of a better opportunity to host a family-friendly and fun outreach event that will attract veterans and service members of all ages. And we need these outreach events now more than ever! Beyond creating a quality family-friendly event, our priority is to continue to build relationships with our veterans' community so we can communicate valuable information about the benefits and services available to them. We are here to help them."
Over the military-themed weekend, Team USA will play three games, as the Under-17 National Team (March 18) and Under-18 National Team (March 19-20) will host the USHL's Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. Each game will feature special military guests, family fun, resource and information tables and giveaways.
This event was made possible through support from our community partners: MGM Grand Detroit, Kroger, Wayne State University Office of Military and Veteran Academic Excellence, Visiting Angels, General RV Center, Health Alliance Plan, Humana, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, United Wholesale Mortgage, US Foods, Veterans Radio and Tito's Handmade Vodka!
Photo by Rena Laverty
The weekend trio begins Friday (March 18) as we invite our heroes to watch the U17s and RoughRiders.
To kick off the fun, USA Hockey Arena will host Anthony Grupido from the Magic of Hope. Grupido is a magician and keynote speaker based out of Detroit. He’s performed magic all over the world and worked with celebrities like the Impractical Jokers, David Dobrik, the Chainsmokers and even some America’s Got Talent winners!
His world class magic is top notch—but his story of overcoming depression and anxiety is why you see him speaking about mental wellness at so many schools and conferences and now at USA Hockey Arena.
Be sure to stay after Friday night's game for extra fun with our Skate with Team! Bring your own skates or limited rentals will be available on the night of the game at the rink.
Team USA will wear alternate third jerseys in all three games over the weekend. The red, white and blue striped sweaters are based off of Team USA's 1996 World Cup of Hockey jerseys as the NTDP celebrates its 25th season of play in 2021-22. This weekend will mark the final time the jerseys will be worn this year. They will be auctioned off online after the weekend with proceeds benefiting the veteran community of Michigan.
Any of our local heroes are eligible for free tickets to a game of their choice by filling out our online form and completing the survey that follows.
Additional tickets can be purchased by calling the USA Hockey Arena box office at 734-453-6400 x396, visiting the box office in person or online by using the links below:
FRIDAY, MARCH 18 - 7PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 19 - 7PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 20 - 4PM
PRESENTING SPONSORS INCLUDE: MGM Grand Detroit, Kroger, Wayne State University Office of Military and Veteran Academic Excellence, Visiting Angels, General RV Center, Health Alliance Plan, Humana, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, United Wholesale Mortgage, US Foods, Veterans Radio and Tito's!
