Steelheads announce donations for St Luke’s Military Jersey Auction

Boise, ID (11/14/16) –The Idaho Steelheads have announced the total donation figures resulting from their St. Luke’s Military Jersey Auction held during Military Appreciation Weekend at CenturyLink Arena. The Steelheads wore custom-made patriotic jerseys, sponsored by St. Luke’s, on November 11th and 12th when hosting the Adirondack Thunder.

This year’s auction generated $18,625 in donations, exceeding last year’s total by over one thousand dollars. That total includes $1,000 in raffle ticket sales for one of the jerseys that was autographed by the entire team.

Two of the jerseys, those worn by defenseman Charlie Dodero and forward Anthony Luciani, were purchased outright at the auction for $1,500 each. Three other players- defenseman Zach Bell and forwards Jefferson Dahl and Rob Linsmayer- saw their jerseys sold for $1,000 each.

“It was a very special weekend for us to honor our service men and women, and once again our fans showed just how much they value the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces,” said Steelheads President Eric Trapp. “It was a terrific experience for our players to meet so many brave men and women over the weekend, and we’re honored that we could be a part of this important effort to support veterans’ wellness efforts here at home.”

All funds will be donated by St. Luke’s to The Speedy Foundation, an organization which seeks to prevent suicide and support mental health education. The funds raised during Military Appreciation Weekend will benefit the foundation’s creation and launch of Mental Health First Aid training specific for military members, veterans, and their families, as well as suicide prevention efforts in Idaho.

Linda Peterson, mother of three-time Olympian Jeret “Speedy” Peterson, was at center ice for the ceremonial puck-drop at CenturyLink Arena on Saturday night.

"The funds raised over this weekend will really impact the launch of a Mental Health First Aid program specific to Veteran's mental health needs,” said Peterson. “Thank you to all involved!"

This was the first of three jersey auctions scheduled for the Steelheads this season. For tickets and information regarding all Steelheads home games and season ticket packages, call the Front Office at 383-0080 or visit idahosteelheads.com.