Colorado Mesa University (CMU) marked the 8th edition of its annual Pink the Rink event on Sunday, combining hockey with a heartfelt mission. The Mavericks faced off against Northern Arizona University at the River City Sportplex, with the event serving as more than just a game—it was a community-driven initiative supporting cancer patients.
A Game with a Greater Purpose
Hockey was only part of the evening’s appeal. Fans in attendance participated in various fundraising activities, including a silent auction and t-shirt sales. Proceeds from the event benefit the Saint Mary’s Cancer Assistance Fund, which provides aid to local cancer patients battling all types of the disease.
CMU Hockey Coach Tim Winegard emphasized the importance of keeping the fundraiser’s impact within the community. “We wanted to do something a bit bigger but stay local. That’s why we chose Saint Mary’s Cancer Assistance Fund. So, it stays local to support the community that supports us as a hockey team,” he explained.
Growth Year After Year
Since its inception, Pink the Rink has grown in every aspect—fan turnout, sponsorship involvement, and donation totals. The evolution has been evident in the increasing contributions and heightened community engagement.
“It just gets bigger every year, whether it’s more community sponsors, more fans, more donations,” said Winegard. “We see that the total amount we raise every year just keeps getting bigger, so we’re thrilled with that.”
The annual tradition has solidified itself as one of CMU’s most significant charitable sporting events, reinforcing the link between athletics and community service.
A Special Season Finale
Typically, Pink the Rink is scheduled earlier in the season, but this year, it coincided with the team’s final match. For the seniors on the roster, it made for a memorable sendoff.
“I think it’s special for them to have their last collegiate hockey game be such a big one of the year,” said Winegard.
Senior team captain Bryson Sutterby echoed that sentiment. “It’s been really fun. I look forward to this game every year, and we got a little lucky this year that it’s our last one. We get to go out on a super big high note. It’s really cool.”
CMU’s annual Pink the Rink continues to be a hallmark event, blending sports, philanthropy, and local support into a single night that leaves a lasting impact.
