Hockey Heroes for the Homeless Raises Over $40,000 for Genesis House in Melbourne

Doug Flutie skated with Team Viera

BREVARD COUNTY • VIERA, FLORIDA – Florida’s Space Coast came alive February 20-22 as athletes, celebrities, business leaders and neighbors gathered for a weekend of competition and camaraderie, all in support of Genesis House in Melbourne. By the final buzzer, Hockey Heroes for the Homeless had raised more than $40,000 to benefit homeless women and children in the community.

The multi day event featured a series of hockey games with four teams, including Viera, Capital Trusses, Stantec and W+J Construction. A highlight of the weekend was a spirited matchup between the NHL Celebrity Alumni and the Florida Power and Light All Stars, drawing enthusiastic crowds and showcasing talent both past and present.

Off the ice, supporters participated in a golf outing, dinners, a hot stove panel and a lively watch party for the Men’s Olympic Gold Medal game, creating multiple opportunities to rally around the cause.

Members of the National Hockey League Celebrity Alumni brought energy and heart to every moment on the ice. Among those participating were Mike Krushelnyski, Stu Grimson, Andrew Cassels, Ric Seiling, Darryl Shannon, Eric Nystrom, Serge Payer, Brian Propp, Christian Hanson, Gilbert Dionne, Eric Perrin, Peter Bondra, Dave McLlwain, Steven Oleksy and Grant Marshall.

Doug Flutie, Heisman Trophy winner and CFL and NFL standout, also skated with Team Viera, adding a special highlight to the weekend festivities.

Todd J. Pokrywa, COO of the Real Estate Group at A. Duda and Sons, Inc. and President of The Viera Company, had the privilege of leading Team Viera on the ice. He reflected on the significance of the weekend, noting that seeing neighbors, friends, business leaders and hockey legends unite for families in need underscored the power of community.

“The energy, camaraderie, compassion and teamwork displayed throughout the event,” he said, “will have a lasting impact on Genesis House and the families it serves.”

The event’s success was made possible through the dedication of volunteers and officials, especially Jon Jehrio and Cyndi Pokrywa, along with referee Carlo Cannon and his officiating team, who ensured the games ran smoothly from start to finish.

Corporate partners played a major role in the fundraiser’s impact. Title Sponsor Health First and All Star Game Sponsor Florida Power and Light were joined by numerous additional sponsors, including FedEx, Phil Hogan, CertainTeed and many local and regional businesses that supported the tournament, golf outing and related events.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Viera served as the official event hotel, helping accommodate guests and participants throughout the weekend.

As businesses, celebrities and community members rallied together, the message was clear: protecting and uplifting families and children in need remains a top priority on the Space Coast.

Through generosity of time, talent and resources, Hockey Heroes for the Homeless delivered both an unforgettable weekend and meaningful support for Genesis House.

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