Rapid City Rush Partners With Local Restaurant For Fundraiser

In early December, Rapid City Rush head coach and general manager Scott Burt took a medical leave of absence to undergo surgery and treatment for a brain tumor.

On Thursday, the Calgary Flames’ ECHL affiliate announced a fundraiser for Burt and his family.

Boss’ Pizza & Chicken, with support from the Rush, is hosting the event on Wednesday, Jan. 15 from the Boss’ Pizza & Chicken Tuscany Square location. All proceeds will benefit Burt and his family. The location will be open for pickup and delivery from 3 Pm through 3 Am that day.

Andrew Heinle, owner of Boss' in Rapid City along with his wife, Marty, are long-time Rush season ticket holders and wanted to do something to help.

"We took over Boss' in May,” Heinle said in a statement. “With everything that Scott Burt has done for the team and the city, we felt that this was the right thing to do as he is going through a difficult time. We look forward to supporting Scott and working with the Rush for this fundraiser."

Select Rush players will be in attendance at the restaurant the day of the fundraiser to help serve customers.

After having surgery in Rapid City, Burt began treatments for a high-grade glioma at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. He became the fourth head coach in team history in the summer of 2021, and added general manager duties in June the following year.

Burt revealed in early December that he had been experiencing migraines for several months. After consulting with the Rush medical staff and receiving guidance from his wife, Audrey, Burt sought medical attention. His diagnosis of a brain tumor came shortly thereafter, and the team announced his leave of absence Dec. 6.

The 47-year-old Burt, a native of British Columbia, was in the midst of his fourth season with the Rush and his 12^th year of coaching in the professional and major junior ranks. Burt’s 13-year career as a player included three Kelly Cup championships.

Assistant coach Peter Drikos has been serving as acting head coach in Burt’s absence. The Hockey News continues to wish the best for Burt and his family during this process.