The YMCA is hosting a hockey game featuring the UW Oshkosh men’s club team on Saturday at the YMCA on 20th Avenue at 5 p.m. that will benefit a local elementary school program.

The Titans face off against New Moon Café’s organized hockey team in the second annual benefit game.

The game is for Lighted School House, a grant-funded school program for Webster Stanley, Washington and Emmeline Cook Elementary schools.

LSH is an after-school program that provides activities and offers a safe place for children where they can get help on homework.

Hockey Club President Andrew Severson said people should come support the UWO team and help the program.

“The Lighted School House is a great cause to help support students in their academic cause,” Severson said. “By coming out to the game, you will not only be helping raise money for the Lighted School House, but you will be able to enjoy a fast paced and exciting game of hockey played by your University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Hockey Club.”

After the Titans were defeated last year, treasurer and budget manager for UW Oshkosh’s hockey club Jared Deli said he was a little shocked by the dedication shown by New Moon Café’s Ice Devils.

“Last year the Ice Devils did come out strong, and yes I was a bit surprised,” Deli said. “Being an Oshkosh native, and skating in the adult league for the past four years I know all of the Ice Devils very well.  They have a group of talented skaters who love the game.” 

Severson said his team is more prepared to play against the Ice Devils this year.

“We came into the game cocky,” Severson said. “Their team didn’t get to play together, or as much, as our team did. We underestimated the talent they had. We plan on not underestimating their team. If we can come out fast and put an early goal on the board, we should be able to play our systems and hold them off.”

Club member Joey Wedderspoon said he is feeling confident with his team this year and that they should be able to beat the Ice Devils.

“I think we just have to play our game,” Wedderspoon said. “Keep it simple and outwork them. If we do that, we should have no problem getting a win.”

With all the confidence from the UWO team, Ice Devils member and New Moon owner Aaron Baer said UWO has potential to win this year but his team will put up a fight.

“Last year’s game was really close, fun and exciting,” Baer said. “It’s possible UWO’s team could get revenge this year, but us old farts can still pull out a win, and we also grow better beards.”

Deli said people should come to the benefit to help support the cause but also the sport of hockey.

“Hockey is not only new to the University, but to the community of Oshkosh,” Deli said. “Any time someone can get the opportunity to be a part of the growth, it is something special.  Hockey has provided so many of us with great memories, it feels great to have the ability to use the sport that we love to give back.”

Baer said people should come to the event to support the community and just have a fun evening.

“It’s a charity, it’s fun and it’s hockey,” Baer said. “Regardless of who wins, we are raising money for an after-school program and bettering our community.”

There will also be live music provided by Steph Tschech and raffle prizes. All proceeds from admission and raffle ticket sales will go toward LSH.

Fans can come early for open skate from 4:15-4:45 p.m.

Rentals are free with ticket purchase. Tickets will be sold at the door for $2 each and children under three are free.