Bari busy as a Bee in Manchester charity match
BRAEHEAD Clan forward Bari McKenzie had no hesitation in agreeing to take part in last Saturday’s charity match for the victims of the recent terror attack in Manchester.
The Scot played, and scored, for the Manchester Bees, the team coached by McKenzie’s former coach at Manchester Phoenix, Tony Hand, who beat Ryan Finnerty’s All Stars 9-6.
The night raised £25,000 for the British Red Cross Manchester Fund to help those affected by the tragic events at Manchester Arena.
“When Tony called to ask if I’d take part, there was no question of me not. As soon as I finished talking to him, I told my girlfriend, we were going,” McKenzie said.
“I was only at the Phoenix a short time and I’ve been speaking to all manner of people. I even met a Milton Keynes fan I’ve not seen for 20 years.
“It’s been great catching up with guys I played with and haven’t seen for years and the atmosphere out there was electric.
“It’s going to go to a good cause and t he amount of money raised has been outstanding. I didn’t realise it was as much as £25,000 and that’s before you get to a shirt auction.
“I’m shellshocked at how well it’s done and a lot of credit should to Tony and Ryan for the great job they’ve done putting it all together.
“This game’s helped my summer training, although I was a bit tired and some of the shifts were long out there, but it’s back to the gym I go.
“All in all, everybody’s had a great night for a great cause and it shows the hockey community when fans from all over the country made their way to Altrincham for this event.”