Viera’s Todd Pokrywa Joins NHL Alumni to Raise Record Funds for Easter Seals at 2025 Celebrity Hockey Classic

Record-Setting Eric Lindros Celebrity Hockey Classic Raises Over $875,000

TORONTO — A spirited mix of community leaders, dedicated fundraisers, and hockey greats helped deliver the most successful Eric Lindros Celebrity Hockey Classic yet, raising more than $875,000 in support of Easter Seals during the 2025 tournament held Friday at Scotiabank Pond.

The annual event, which brings together National Hockey League alumni and community players to support children with disabilities, reached its highest fundraising total in its history — a milestone participants say reflects both passion for the sport and commitment to the cause.

The Viera Company’s Todd Pokrywa, who captained Team Celebrity Shinny, said the achievement was a testament to “community-minded and dedicated individuals” who brought heart and determination to the ice. His team alone contributed more than $30,000, supported by a roster of volunteers, donors, and players who embraced the mission.

“This cause is deeply meaningful to me,” Pokrywa said. “Having skated with NHL Alumni Association members to support key initiatives before, I know the impact these funds have on children striving to carve their own path. Every shift, every dollar, and every cheer counts.”

Team Celebrity Shinny featured a full slate of players — Michael A. Collymore CFP, Nicholas Gomez, David Kennedy, Kyle Kotack, Noah Fung, Travis Stewart, Jon Jehrio, Terrance James O’Brien, John Persinger, Francesco Muss, Morgan Pace, Kevin Hadaway, and goaltender Christopher Sinclair — each contributing both on the ice and through fundraising.

This year’s tournament also brought out celebrated NHL Alumni, including Hockey Hall of Fame Honoured Member Eric Lindros, who skated with the team for one of its games, and four-time Stanley Cup champion Mike Krushelnyski, whose leadership and enthusiasm energized the squad after he was drafted to join their roster.

Participants also faced off against notable alumni, including Ryan Getzlaf and Al Iafrate, adding a competitive edge and star power to the event.

Pokrywa credited the success to a broad coalition of supporters — sponsors, volunteers, fans in the stands, and the organizational team at Jackson Events Inc. — all of whom contributed to the record-breaking outcome.

“Here’s to continuing to deliver on our promise: to create opportunities, build community through sport, and empower kids with disabilities to succeed,” he said.

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