Organizers of a local golf tournament now in its fifth year are hoping to make hockey more accessible to area youth.
The Cousi Open — an annual event held in honour of the late Brian ‘Cousi’ Cousineau — has raised some $60,000 since its inception in 2017. Previous proceeds have gone to support Diabetes Canada; now, the group wants to give back to the Sarnia Minor Hockey Association.
“Like many of us in Sarnia, Brian grew up playing hockey,” said longtime friend Mike Hobin, who helps organize the golf tournament along with family and friends.
Cousineau, a goaltender, went on to play professional hockey; he died at age 49 in 2002.
“We all played minor hockey in Sarnia and want to give back to the community,” Hobin added. “Doing it under Cousi’s name — it’s something we all think he’d appreciate — because he loved the game of hockey and he loved helping people out.
“So, we are all excited about this new cause to raise money for.”
Hobin said organizers are hoping to raise $25,000 this year, specifically to help make hockey more accessible for youth in need, as well as developing young goaltenders.
“Buying goaltending equipment is expensive, and we will be supplying Sarnia house leagues with full gear, and run clinics to develop skills.”
The golf tournament, happening at the St. Clair Parkway Golf Course on July 27, has already sold out, and has grown in popularity over the years. Hobin says he hopes it can continue to honour Cousineau’s legacy.
“We want to open it up and try to get more younger people involved,” he said. “So the tournament can continue for a long time, and we can continue to support minor hockey.”
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