The third annual Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation Winter Classic was held on Saturday at Saskatoon’s Merlis Belsher Place.
Rosters, captained by Riders' kicker Brett Lauther and former Saskatchewan receiver Chris Getzlaf, faced off in front of an enthusiastic crowd. The teams were drafted by the captains and included current and former Roughriders, NHL legends and local heroes.
On the scoreboard, Team Getzlaf picked up its first victory in the event’s history, 9-6 over Team Lauther. The real winner, though, was the youth in the province as proceeds from the event go to support the Roughrider Foundation Win With Wellness program, which supports youth mental health across the province.
Lauther travels countless kilometres presenting at schools around Saskatchewan.
“Some of the stuff you're teaching the kids, like box breathing, is something that you use every day. They're coming up telling you they're using it before their AAA hockey games, their music recitals, whatever it might be.”
Lauther is entering his eighth season with the Roughriders. Throughout his time in Saskatchewan, he has spoken to thousands of kids through the Win with Wellness campaign.
“We talk about a lot of different things and try to be as relatable as possible to the kids. Let them know we're dealing with everything they deal with.
Former Roughrider receiver Andy Fantuz returned to Saskatchewan to play in this year’s event for the second time.
“It's about the whole weekend, reminiscing with the fellas. It's not only for mental health, it's good for our mental health too to get back with our friends.”
NHL veteran Mike Sillinger, who played for 17 seasons with 12 teams, scored a goal in the game but was happier to do it for Saskatchewan’s youth.
“This is something that is their third year doing this, and it's an amazing cause. Mental health and awareness, it's special.”
In 2024, the Winter Classic raised more than $74,000 for the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation, and this year, organizers are confident they will exceed that amount.
