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Mark Mannarn will tell you that he “loves hockey and hates cancer”. He lost his grandmother in 2010 to pancreatic cancer and during that same year, his mother was also diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2010, at the age of 12, Mark created and launched Minor Hockey Fights Cancer ‘Feel Like a Pro Day’.
In the fall of 2010, Mark attended “We Day”, a global youth initiative that encourages young people to make a difference in the world. This event gave Mark the idea that he could make an impact.
Mark’s dream was to create a local hockey skill building event for young players, led by professional hockey players and alumni. Young hockey players would raise money to participate, with the top fundraisers invited to play in a real game with the pros.
Mark instigated the event by approaching his best friend’s father, Hockey Hall of Fame inductee and former Edmonton Oiler Paul Coffey, asking him to lend his name and talents to the event. Mr. Coffey readily agreed and in January 2011, Mark and his dad (Art Mannarn) contacted the Canadian Cancer Society, inviting them to be their charity of choice.
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The first “Feel Like a Pro Day” took place in June 2011. The enthusiastic participation of 200 plus minor hockey players, combined with support from his corporate sponsors helped Mark raise $200,000 in its first year.
Mark’s dream is that Minor Hockey Fights Cancer will raise $1,000,000 to help find a cure for cancer.
2013 Feel Like a Pro Day
There will be one All Star Game with the pros. The top 30 fundraisers that raise over $1,000 will be invited to play in the Top Fundraisers All Star Game with the pros.
Mission
To make a difference by raising awareness and money to fight cancer though Minor Hockey Fights Cancer. Ultimately, to raise $1,000,000 to help find a cure for cancer.
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