Big kicks, big dollars at residence soccer showdown

There's nothing like a little inter-residence competition to inspire an opportunity to raise money for a good cause.

Organizers still counting the change raised at the fifth annual Residence Charity Kickoff event on October 29, where teams from Howe and Risley Hall faced off. But when it's all said and done, they expect to make a sizeable donation to the IWK Health Centre.

Close to 130 students from each residence came out to Wickwire Field to support their respective teams. Also present were a few staff and alumni who braved the chilly weather in support of a great cause.

It was a tight game right up until the very end, with double overtime and a series of penalty kicks. Howe Hall won the game with a 2-1 victory over Risley.

Richard Clark, council president for Howe Hall, said despite the friendly rivalry, fans that came out to the game were showing their black and gold in high spirits.

“I think it’s important for students to take advantage of all the opportunities there is when you live in residence,” he says. “This is just one of many events that give students the chance to participate in something fun and active.”

“Regardless of the fact it was cold, people came out to show their support– they made signs, painted their faces, and cheered on their team,” said Carla Britten, residence life manager for Risley Hall. “Events like this are an important part of building community and a sense of pride.”

The residences are gearing up for a similar match set for March where the Trojans (Howe, Gerard, and O’Brien Halls) and the Big Horns (Risley, Shirreff, and Eliza Ritchie Hall) will trade in their soccer cleats for hockey skates and compete in a residence charity hockey game. All proceeds from the hockey game will also go toward the IWK Health Centre. For details on tryouts, students can visit their residence life manager.