All proceeds from USA Warriors vs. Lawmakers game benefit injured veterans

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) participated in the USA Warriors vs. Lawmakers charity ice-hockey game, which matched up disabled veterans against members of Congress and their staff.  To see photos from this event, click here.

“Despite the challenges they face, the USA Warriors hockey players have a love for hockey and a competitive spirit that remains strong,” said Rep. Quigley. “The same qualities that made them successful in the military, their teamwork, perseverance and determination, make them inspiring competitors on the ice and I’m honored to be a part of this event.”

USA Warriors Team Captain Mark Little (left), a double amputee and Purple Heart recipient, faces off against Rep. Mike Quigley (right) as Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Raymond Odierno and wife Linda (center) drop the ceremonial puck to start the USA Warriors vs. Lawmakers hockey game. (photo credit Rachel Larue/Pentagram)

Congressman Mike Quigley (second from the right) skates in the USA Warriors vs. Lawmakers charity fundraiser game. (photo credit Rachel Larue/Pentagram)

The fundraiser included a sled hockey exhibition prior to the USA Warriors vs. Lawmakers game. (photo credit Rachel Larue/Pentagram)

The final score of the game was 7-3 in favor of the Lawmakers, but the USA Warriors Ice Hockey Program, the beneficiary of the event, was the big winner.  The program is comprised of servicemen and women who use the sport of ice hockey as a rehabilitation tool to overcome both physical and mental injuries sustained either in combat or in defense of the United States of America.  The USA Warriors have both the standing team, which competed against the Lawmakers, and a sled team, which held an exhibition session earlier in the evening.  Both teams include numerous Purple Heart recipients and service members from across military branches. 

In addition to Rep. Quigley, Representatives Brian Higgins (D-NY) and Pat Meehan (R-PA) skated on Team Lawmakers. Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Raymond Odierno oversaw the ceremonial puck drop prior to the start of the game, and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps General James Dunford was also in attendance.  The event took place at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, the official practice facility of the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League. 

Rep. Quigley began playing hockey when he was six years old and still plays regularly when he is back home in the District.  He is a co-chair of the Congressional Hockey Caucus, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress dedicated to advocating for the expansion of hockey programs in America, with special attention to programs for disadvantaged and disabled youth who might not otherwise be able to participate in the sport. Rep. Quigley is an avid Chicago Blackhawks fan and has worked with the team to expand access to floor hockey programs to youth at the Neighborhood Boys and Girls Club in Chicago and to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community through the Center on Halsted. 

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