On Friday, November 30th, the Chicago Steel will host a first-in-nation Crazy Hat Night vs the Central Illinois Flying Aces, presented by The School of Art, to benefit the Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope.
The custom designed helmets are in for our Crazy Hat Night game November 30, presented by @SchoolofArtChi. You’ll be able to bid on these exact helmets the Steel will wear during the game, with proceeds going to the Alyssa Alvin Foundation! #WeAreSteel pic.twitter.com/CCp0J7Waus
— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) November 20, 2018
The Steel will become the first known team at any level of organized hockey to take the ice wearing 25 different individually painted helmets. The unique helmets were painted by local amateur artists as a tribute to children and young adults fighting cancer. Following the game each helmet will be auctioned off to raise money for the Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope.
The local artists include area elementary schools, Cub Scouts, and nonprofit organizations, whom were invited to paint the team helmets with the goal of showcasing the fighting spirit of children and young adults battling cancer.
“I’ve been fortunate to have been a part of many innovative sports promotions, but I’ve never been a part of something like this that combines art and sport to raise money for charity in such a grassroots way,” said Dan Lehv, President of the Chicago Steel. “We believe this to be a first in hockey history, but it’s being able to contribute to a great cause that has excited our players and staff.”
The Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope provides an opportunity for young cancer patients to explore their interests in music and visual arts, and helps provide art supplies to cancer patients. More information regarding the foundation can be found at: https://www.alyssaalvinfoundationforhope.org