The 4th annual AC15 Women’s Hockey Tournament in Temiskaming Shores is not only a thrilling weekend of hockey, but also a platform for raising funds for a charitable cause and advocating for the importance of CPR training. This event is dedicated to honouring the late Alexa Corneil and aims to enhance an outdoor rink in North Cobalt, while also promoting awareness about the significance of CPR training and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED).
Alexa Corneil, a 19-year-old native of New Liskeard, tragically passed away in her sleep due to a heart arrhythmia while attending university. Her undiagnosed heart condition called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) led to this devastating loss. In memory of Alexa, her family is dedicated to advocating for the importance of CPR training and the use of AEDs.
It is crucial for individuals to understand that CPR and AED awareness can be life-saving skills, a message that Alexa’s family hopes to impart. Glenn Corneil, Alexa’s father, stressed the importance of being knowledgeable in these life-saving techniques, and the significance of overcoming any fear associated with performing CPR, as it can truly make a difference. This tournament provides an opportunity for local healthcare professionals and high school students to conduct CPR training courses and educate individuals on the operation of AEDs.
The impact of this tournament extends beyond raising awareness, as funds raised in previous tournaments have been used for meaningful community projects. For example, proceeds from past events were utilized to convert a dressing room in Haileybury into a room specifically designed for female athletes. This year, the funds donated, in collaboration with the City of Temiskaming Shores, will help in the renovation of the outdoor rink at Shaver Park in North Cobalt.
The renovation plans encompass making the ice surface more playable, addressing structural issues, and paving the area to create a safe environment for children to learn to ride bicycles in the summer. Additionally, the Corneil family’s close ties to the family of former North Bay Battalion star Justin Brazeau have resulted in an added contribution from the Brazeau family. Every tournament, they donate a jersey from Justin’s team to help boost the proceeds.
For those interested in contributing to this noble cause or learning more about the initiatives, they can contact the Alexa Corneil AC Hockey Fund via email at [email protected].
This weekend-long event presents a wonderful opportunity to indulge in the sport of hockey, while also supporting significant initiatives and creating awareness about the vital need for CPR and AED training. It is an occasion for the community to come together and make a positive impact, just as Alexa’s legacy continues to do. Let’s lace up our skates and join the cause!