Roughriders Winter Classic returns to Saskatoon on Saturday

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It’s a rare blend of football and hockey, where pucks and footballs metaphorically collide.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Winter Classic charity hockey game returns to Saskatoon on Saturday afternoon at Merlis Belsher Place.

It’s becoming an annual event. The third Winter Classic brings together current and former Rider players with former NHL players for an “afternoon of hockey and community spirit.”

This year’s game will feature Team Lauther, captained by Riders kicker Brett Lauther and coached by receiver Ajou Ajou, and Team Getzlaf, captained by former Rider receiver Chris Getzlaf and coached by current Rider receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker.

Puck drop for this special event is at 1 p.m.

Also among the confirmed participants are:

— current players Peter Godber, Mitch Picton and Noah Zerr;

— former CFL greats Andy Fantuz and Jason Clermont;

— former NHLers Mike Sillinger (Detroit Red Wings, Anaheim Mighty Ducks, Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, Ottawa Senators, Columbus Blue Jackets, Phoenix Coyotes, St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, New York Islanders), Joe Kocur (Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers) and Luke Gazdic (Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils).

Along with the hockey, there will be a Kids Zone for families, with special giveaways and in-game activities.

Also, fans can stick around after the game for an exclusive meet-and-greet with players and guests.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Roughrider Foundation’s “Win with Wellness” presentation series, which empowers youth in Saskatchewan by promoting mental wellness through school classroom presentations led by trained Roughrider ambassadors.

Tickets are $25 for anyone aged 13 or older. There’s free admission for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult.

dzary@postmedia.com

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