It's the Ryan Pulock sweepstakes.
It's a trip that many can only dream about. For those who purchased a ticket, that dream may become a reality. 1,000 tickets were up for grabs. Less than 48 hours later, they were all gone. It's the ultimate New York Islanders experience.
It includes round-trip economy flights for two from Winnipeg to New York. Add in three nights' accommodation, two Islanders games at UBS Arena, and two Pulock jerseys.
"Well, I guess in one word I would say wow, the response has been overwhelming," said Tannis Pulock, Ryan's mom. "I would say it's unprecedented to sell 1,000 tickets in less than 48 hours. Certainly a great feeling knowing we've just raised $20,000 for the ice plant project."
The experience also includes post-game meet and greets, $250 food and drink credit at the arena, $250 Isles' lab credit, and $500 Uber credit. Tickets were only $20.
The entire prize was donated by Ryan, who has always taken pride in giving back to his home community.
"He does care deeply about this community. He has always remained true to his roots. Grandview will always be home to him," added Pulock. "This was a way for him to give back. He and his brothers spent a lot of time on the GACC ice. This is one more donation to ensuring kids from here and around here will have that same opportunity."
After starting his professional career in the American Hockey League with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Pulock quickly rose to the NHL. He has played 636 regular-season games, all with the Islanders. He had 56 goals and 241 points.
He also has 27 points in 66 playoff games. Ryan has also represented Canada on multiple occasions, including the World Championships.
"I will say, it will never get old. Not everyone gets to live out their childhood dream like Ryan is," added Pulock. "We are so grateful that he's had that chance. When we're watching a game, there are all the emotions. Whether it's pride, nervousness, fear, excitement, frustration, elation, or heartbreak. There have been ups and downs. We have never taken it for granted."
The entire $20,000 raised through the sweepstakes is going towards the ice plant project. The new ice plant will service the GACC and the curling rink. It's expected to be operational for next season.
Grandview is well known for being a generous and supportive community. Both facilities are needed in the community.
They're both packed all winter, and Ryan's generosity goes towards them staying operational for years to come.
"They're busy, they're thriving. Skills are being developed, lessons are being learned, friendships are being formed, and memories are being built because we have these two rinks," added Pulock. "It's really exciting to see it's moving forward. I'm sure our rec staff is excited as well. They won't have to be crossing fingers and praying the old ice plant will start up again."
For Tannis, the GACC is home. Her grandfather, RJ Wilson, was one of the original pushes behind the construction of the building and managed the Comets for many years.
Much of her family played for the Comets, and Ryan played when he was 15.
She now spends hundreds of hours in the winter watching her grandchildren play at the rink.
"As far as the community goes, it isn't just a building. It's where a community comes to life, and I think most people would say the same," commented Pulock. "You don't even have to like hockey. Many other events have happened there. It's the heartbeat of the community."
Tannis thanks all of the businesses that sold tickets, including Grandview Pharmacy, Home Hardware, and Western Financial in Gilbert Plains. Many individuals also sold tickets.
Tannis purchased posters, but didn't even have time to put them up because the tickets sold so quickly.
"You know, someone is going to win a really great prize," she ended. "We're excited about raising money for the ice plant. I really want to thank everyone who supported the raffle."
The draw date is August 8 at 9:00 p.m. at Wilson Park Stage in Grandview.
