Original Article: https://ontariohockeyleague.com/article/winner-of-5050-raffle-has-special-ties-to-special-olympics
Congratulations to Ted Zalewski of Sarnia, the winner of the OHL’s inaugural 50/50 online raffle in support of Special Olympics Ontario.
An avid purchaser of 50/50 tickets at Sarnia Sting games in the past, Zalewski found out about the draw through his local Sarnia Special Olympics branch, as well as through their newsletter.
“I thought it was a great idea to be honest,” said Zalewski of the draw.
“I think it’s a good thing for Special Olympics.”
A desire to help give back and a special tie to the Special Olympics prompted Zalewski to enter the draw. Zalewski’s son, Edward, plays floor hockey and bowling with Special Olympics Ontario in Sarnia.
“He’s been very happy this year and has quite enjoyed the floor hockey especially,” said Zalewski.
“Because of the local volunteers here and all the time they put in, this was our way of giving back.”
Edward is a huge fan of the Sarnia Sting and tries to attend as many games as we can.
“He’s got all kinds of souvenirs and cards, and tries to get signatures of the players,” Zalewski said.
“We try to go out to as many Sarnia Sting community events as we can.”
What are Zalewski’s plans for the prize money? He’ll use some of it to continue to help Special Olympics run community events. He’ll buy some new equipment for Edward’s floor hockey season. Then, he’ll have some fun with the rest.
“It’s my wife and I’s 25th wedding anniversary next year and we’re planning a family trip, so it might go toward that as well,” he said.
The money raised through the online 50/50 raffle will be donated to Special Olympics Ontario in addition to each individual clubs’s ongoing efforts throughout the season. OHL member teams and their fans raised over $34,000 during the 2018-2019 season.