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Patrick Eaves takes home Smashfest title as charity event continues to grow

Smashfest

By Chris Lomon

When it comes to getting support for his charity event known as Smashfest, New York Rangers forward Dominic Moore knows he’ll get by with a little help from his friends – and the mayor of Toronto.

The fourth edition of one of the most unique charity events is in the books, a gathering that brings together hockey players, past and present, other athletes, celebrities, ardent hockey fans and politicians, namely, Mayor John Tory, for a night of fundraising, food and ping-pong bragging rights.

On July 23, Moore played host to a raucous and appreciative crowd, who helped raised funds and awareness for two causes: cancer research and concussions.

“I’ve had tremendous support over the years, from the players, fans, sponsors, and the NHLPA,” said Moore, of the annual event that was held at the Steam Whistle Brewery in downtown Toronto. “It’s really evolved into something special.”

The one-of-a-kind event has become a ‘must attend’ summer staple for fans and NHL players alike, a chance for the players and supporters of the good old hockey game to mix and mingle.

“It’s a big honour to be here to support Dom and two great causes,” said San Jose Sharks forward Logan Couture, who played alongside Moore for a portion of the 2011-12 campaign. “He was a great teammate and he’s a great person.”

Said Jason Spezza of the Dallas Stars, “It’s a lot of fun to spend time with the guys before the season starts. But, we also want to do whatever we can to lend a hand to Dom. He works hard to put on a good show, and he’s also one of the hardest-working guys in the game.”

Matt Beleskey, Alexandre Burrows, Michael Del Zotto, Kevin Klein, Nick Kypreos, Eric Lindros, Sean Monahan, Ryan Murphy, Antoine Roussel, Mathieu Schneider, Tyler Seguin, Jeff Skinner, Cam Talbot, Stephane Veilleux, Steve Webb, and Rob Zamuner also attended, along with Canadian tennis ace Milos Raonic.

While charity was the name of the game, so, too, was the players’ desire to serve up match point against each other.

“Alex Burrows, probably,” said Stars forward Roussel, when asked who he most wanted to beat. “I’m aiming for the French guy. I can’t take out my teammate Jason Spezza, so that’s a huge weight on my shoulders.”

As Moore was quick to note, just because it’s the NHL off-season doesn’t mean the competitive edge is gone.

“Everyone that participates, players or fans, you can see how much fun they have,” he said. “But, of course, guys want to win. That’s not really a surprise.”

It’s not a fraction of the feeling that would come with hoisting the Stanley Cup over your head, but for Patrick Eaves, who won the players’ tournament, it’s not too shabby.

“It was just a great night all around, helping to raise money for very important causes,” said the Dallas winger, who bested 2013 and 2014 champ Stephane Veilleux. “But, you definitely don’t mind being the guy who won.”

Thrown in some impressive sports memorabilia auctions, both silent and live, and the night was, pardon the pun, a smashing success.

The total amount of money raised from this year's event is still being tallied. To date, Smashfest has raised $270,000, including $140,000 last year.

An award-nominated writer, Chris Lomon contributes feature stories to a number of magazines and websites, including Yahoo! Sports (Canada) and NHLPA.com. He has written numerous articles for horse racing publications over the years and has been nominated for a Sovereign Award (feature writing category) on three occasions. Follow him on Twitter at @ChrisLomon.

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