It was a good night at the Sudbury Arena - a shootout goal by Josh Leivo helped the Sudbury Wolves secure a win over the Owen Sound Attack, and the Burgess family was presented with a key to the city for their 25 years of service.
The Nov. 25 game started with a celebration of the team’s unique history. No other private owners have been at the helm of an Ontario Hockey League (OHL) franchise for as long as the Burgess family. In recognition of this accomplishment, representatives from the City of Greater Sudbury and the Ontario Hockey League were on hand to present the family with tokens of appreciation.
Greater Sudbury Mayor Marianne Matichuk and OHL Commissioner David Branch were some of the special guests who made on-ice appearances prior to the puck drop.
Following the celebration, Mark Burgess said he was “honoured.”
“The Milestone Award from Dave Branch in the OHL, that one is near and dear to my heart,” he said. “I know a few people who’ve received that award, and they’re outstanding people. To be even mentioned in the same award as those gentlemen – I’m pretty proud of that fact.”
Reflecting back on the past 25 years, Burgess said he’s “enjoyed every minute of it.”
“If I knew then what I know now, I’d have been even more even eager to get involved,” he said.
A press release from the CHL stated the Burges family has become a model of success to other owners of CHL teams across Canada.
Among their many accomplishments over the past 25 years is the ability and belief of the Burgess family to give back and make a commitment to community involvement and support. The organization “gives back” by attending minor hockey practices, making hospital visits, elementary school visits and hosting community autograph sessions. The Wolves also donate thousands of free Wolves’ tickets to the community through various programs and non-profit organizations on an annual basis.
The Burgess Family ensure that Wolves’ players participate in a variety of local charity events to help organizations raise funds, including the Easter Seals Bowl with the Wolves, community walks, as well as a Christmas Skate with the Wolves.
Posted by Jenny Jelen
