'Take it to the next level.' Annual 'Shoulder Check Showcase' moves to Martire Family Arena at Sacred Heart University
Since the hockey charity event's inception in 2023, it has grown exponentially in popularity, bringing thousands of hockey fans from all over the tri-state here to Connecticut.
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The "Shoulder Check" showcase has some brand-new digs.
Since the hockey charity event's inception in 2023, it has grown exponentially in popularity, bringing thousands of hockey fans from all over the tri-state here to Connecticut.
Organizers decided it was time for an upgrade.
"It was time to kind of take it to the next level," said Rob Thorsen, founder of the HT40 Foundation and Shoulder Check.
For the first three years, the event was held at Terry Conners Rink in Stamford. But this year, it will be held at the much larger Martire Family Arena on the campus of Sacred Heart University.
Thorsen said 25% more people will be able to attend compared to past years.
"We'll get to invite all of our guests out for the same great experience that we had when we were at Cove Island Park," Thorsen said. "But now we're just going to have that party here on a college campus."
The showcase raises money for the HT40 Foundation, which Thorsen founded in the wake of his son Hayden's sudden and unexpected death in 2022.
Like in past years, the event will feature nearly 30 NHL hockey players, like Chris Kreider, Trevor Zegras, Darien native and Stanley Cup champion Spencer Knight and more.
Thorsen said this year's showcase will be broadcast nationally on NHL Network as well.
"It exponentially increases our reach with the event, which is really the goal of it," Thorsen said. "Which is to have people out and see and experience the power of what it means to come together as a community and just be together and put hands on each other's shoulders."
The university says it hopes the event will set up shop in Fairfield for years to come.
"A tremendous event and a tremendous cause," Sacred Heart Univ. Deputy Athletic Director Charlie Dowd said. "We're delighted to be partnering with 'Shoulder Check,' and we can't wait for Thursday."
Tickets can be purchased here.
