Hockey Fights Hunger Raises $4,500 for Woburn Food Banks

WESTFIELD, Mass.  -  With all the receipts in, the Westfield State University and Southern New Hampshire University ice hockey teams raised $4,500 to support food banks in Melrose, Mass., with the "Hockey Fights Hunger" game at the O'Brien Rink in Melrose, Mass. on Nov. 21.

The proceeds are split between the St. Vincent De Paul Food Bank, and the Woburn Council for Social Concern in honor of Bob Miele, Sr., the late father of Westfield State head coach Bob Miele.

Miele, a Woburn native, and SNHU coach Sean Walsh, a current Woburn resident had their teams partner with the O'Brien Rink and Woburn Youth Hockey to have the first-ever collegiate game at the rink.

The game drew an estimated crowd of more than 500 fans and friends, who also donated several hundred pounds of non-perishable food items to the two food banks.

"I was really pleased with the turnout for the game, and how much we were able to raise to support the two food banks, and to help create awareness of their need for support," said Miele.  "It's an honor to be able to make the gift in my father's name, and I can't say thank you enough to everyone who came to the game and supported St. Vincent De Paul and the Woburn Council for Social Concern," said Miele.

"Mike Ferragamo and Felipe Barretto, and the staff from the O'Brien Rink really went out of their way to make sure everything ran smoothly for the game and advance ticket sales, and in gathering and delivering all the food items to the two food banks," said Miele.

Southern New Hampshire won the game, 3-2 on a late goal from Brendon Lynch.

Youngsters had a chance to skate with the teams after the game, with a great turnout among teams and families from Woburn Youth Hockey.

"Other than the result, it was a great night," said Miele.  "I'd love to come back in future years and have a game at the O'Brien Rink if there is enough enthusiasm for it in the community."