This past summer, Brian MacKenzie hosted the 11th annual S.S. Invitational Golf Tournament at Maplewood Golf Club, just outside of Winnipeg. The tournament was a roaring success, featuring 72 golfers and raising over $5,000 for HEROS players in their community!
“This tournament is probably my proudest achievement. To be able to give back to a game that has given me so much, it’s really special, and I look forward to it every year”.
Growing up playing hockey in Winnipeg, Brian experienced all that the sport had to offer, including important life skills and lasting friendships. This personal development, along with hard work and dedication to the game, led Brian to playing for – and eventually captaining – the Selkirk Steelers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.
After his junior hockey career, Brian continued demonstrating his commitment to the sport and his community by coaching various levels of youth hockey while teaching in a local skills development program. But his work in the community didn’t end when he left the rink.
Looking for new ways to make an impact – while also sneaking in a round of golf with his buddies – Brian had the idea to host the inaugural S.S. Invitational Golf Tournament.
The first tournament was held in 2012, hosting just a few foursomes made up of teammates and friends. Over the course of 11 years, the S.S. Invitational has now grown to be a can’t miss event, seeing hundreds of golfers tee off and raising thousands of dollars for charities and communities in need.
In 2019, Brian stumbled upon HEROS while researching a new cause for the tournament to support. Noticing how HEROS’ values and love for the game echoed his own, he decided to donate that year’s proceeds towards empowering marginalized youth throughout his community.
Even through unprecedented challenges, the following years saw the tournament grow even bigger and better, bringing in new golfers, sponsors and volunteers, while raising over $15,000 for HEROS programs.
“We have a great core group of people that make this tournament possible,” Brian said. “We’ve all really bonded with HEROS and are happy to support an organization that helps kids in our community get out onto the ice.”
Brian, you are a true community leader and a hero for our HEROS. Thank you for your hard work, time and dedication to helping youth in your community. We can’t wait to tee off with you again in 2023!
Do you want to help provide the youth in your community with something bigger than hockey? Learn more about how you can host your own event in support of HEROS by reaching out to Josh, Donor Engagement and Sponsorship lead at josh@heroshockey.com, or by phone at 905-914-0315.
