Two Gretzkys for the price of one

NHL alumni face Law Enforcement Torch Run team in Special Olympics benefit game Saturday at Memorial Centre

NHL stars of the past will be on display at the Memorial Centre on Saturday night to benefit Special Olympics Ontario.

The Scotiabank 2017 NHL Alumni Benefit Tour features retired NHL stars facing off against the local Law Enforcement Torch Run Team beginning at 6 p.m.

Walter Gretzky is the honorary coach and players expected to participate include Tiger Williams, Rick Vaive, Nik Antropov, Al Iafrete, Mike Krushelnyski, Tom Fergus, Dave Reid, Ron Tugnutt, Mark Laforest, Brent Gretzky, Bryan Muir with Dave Hutchison serving as the referee and master of ceremonies, according to the tour website.

Const. Cam Kenny has been helping to co-ordinate the local game for 13 years and says local officers always look forward to the event. Special Olympics is the traditional charity of choice of the Peterborough Police Services chief.

“It’s an opportunity not everybody has,” Kenny said. “To have an opportunity to play with these guys whose skills are paramount.”

The local team features some former pro and junior hockey players but each year they can’t quite get the best of the NHL Alumni.

“They can’t believe the skill-set of these guys,” Kenny said. “Don’t let the word retirement fool you. Just because they are retired doesn’t mean they’ve lost their skill.”

Walter Gretzky is always a fan favourite.

“Walter will sign autographs until his hand bleeds,” Kenny said. “He is there every year.

“The young folks enjoy the hockey and for the older folks those names bring them back.”

The event promises more than just hockey.

“The Scotiabank NHL Alumni Benefit Tour gives fans a unique experience and an evening to remember that showcases top shelf hockey skills, on ice pranks and old fashioned hockey nostalgia,” states a press release.

“This great evening provides something for fans of all ages and gives you an exciting opportunity to see a lighter side of these hockey greats while raising money for a great cause.”

Proceeds help provide yearround sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $22 and available only at www.benefithockey.com.