Photo credit: Garrett James Photography
Shaw Communications and the BC Hockey League are proud to announce the winner of the inaugural Shaw BCHL Community Hero Award – Prince George Spruce Kings goalie Jett Alexander.
The award is given out monthly to a BCHL player who goes above and beyond in his community and Alexander certainly accomplished that as his October Saves Goalie Challenge raised hundreds of dollars for cancer research, while capturing the spirit of the community by getting fans, players, team staff and billets involved.
During the month of October, Alexander pledged to donate 25-cents per save made to the cause.
“With this being my last year of junior and being in Prince George here with the support we get from the community, it was a good opportunity to just try to raise a little bit of money for a really great cause that pretty much affects everyone,” said Alexander.
This was the first year the 20-year-old netminder participated in the initiative and it was only the second year it’s been open to Canadian participation. He says he drew inspiration from NHL goalies like Jake Allen of the St. Louis Blues who also takes part.
Another reason Alexander was so passionate about raising funds for cancer research was, like most people, it was something that affected him personally.
“I lost a grandfather when I was around 15-years-old,” he said. “Cancer is a disease that affects everyone. Whether it’s someone who’s had it themselves or someone you know like a family member, it’s a horrible thing. I just thought it was a good opportunity to help people.”
After announcing he would be participating, it wasn’t long before his team stepped in to support him.
His donation page is littered with the names of teammates, team staff, parents and even his billets who all pledged to donate a specific amount per save Alexander made in the month.
In total, he raised $358.75.
As the presenter of the Shaw BCHL Community Hero Award, Shaw Communications has pledged to make a matching donation to Stand Up to Cancer Canada, one of the beneficiaries of the October Saves Goalie Challenge.
“Through his compassion, commitment and skill, Jett has shown himself to be a true role-model in the Prince George community,” said Chethan Lakshman, Vice President, External Affairs, Shaw Communications. “He has gone above and beyond to help make a difference and proven what’s possible when you bring the community together. We’re proud to recognize Jett with the first-ever Shaw BCHL Community Hero Award.”
Alexander, a native of Bloomfield, Ont., spent the previous three seasons in the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), and was acquired by Prince George this past offseason.
With his October Saves Goalie Challenge combined with his stellar on-ice play, it’s safe to say he’s already ingrained himself in the community.
“Every night, they’re very supportive,” said Alexander. “You can hear the chants going when we need a little bit of momentum. That’s really all you can ask for. Our building gets pretty loud sometimes and it’s a really fun atmosphere to play in.
“At the end of the day, it just comes down to community and people really wanting to help.”
