Maple's Turkey Madness

[dogwoodmaple 380]

Vancouver Wolves' forward Dogwood Maple continued his Maple's Turkey Madness this year as he donated 1,500 turkeys to local families this week.  He initially started the program when he was with the Las Vegas Aces and has continued the tradition in Vancouver.

 

"Thanksgiving is a great time to look around and truly consider what you're grateful for and that's why I started Maple's Turkey Madness and why I'll do it as long as I'm in the league.  I'm really fortunate to play a game for a living and have the ability to help those in need.  We gave out 1,500 turkeys this year, along with various sides, winter clothes, and gift cards to local stores and restaurants.  I'm just trying my best to make a difference in my local community - it's the least I could do," Maple said.

 

"And luckily, we were able to expand the program this year beyond just the turkeys. One of my sponsors, Waffle House, has graciously agreed to cater free meals on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of Thanksgiving week at various locations throughout the city. Anyone is welcome to bring their friends, family, or whoever they'd like to any of these spots and get a hot meal.  Not to mention that Waffle House also donated 500 chicken breasts, 750 non-meat options for the vegans and vegetarians out there, as well as a 24/7 coffee stand that will give out free coffee as well.  My goal is to help provide a meal for everyone who needs it, whether it's for a big Thanksgiving feast or just a hot meal on a cold night.  We went big this year and I hope we can reach as many folks as possible," Maple explained.

 

And while Maple and his sponsors are giving out tons of food, that's not the only thing being donated to a good cause.  Maple has also agreed to donate all of his game-worn gear for the week of Thanksgiving as a part of a charity auction.  All of the proceeds will go to three local charities for the holiday season.  

 

"The people of Vancouver have been so welcoming to me and I'm just trying to repay that gratitude.  I was a complete and total outsider when I got here and they embraced me from day one and their support has helped not only my on-ice play, but our entire organization.  Sports teams are nothing without their local communities, which is why I'm going to continue to highlight those folks for years to come."

 

When asked about his plans for Christmas and whether he would dress up as Santa Claus, Maple was laughingly vague about the prospect.

"I've never been Santa Claus, I won't lie.  I'd have to find somebody with the suit and beard and everything.  But I'm certainly not against it.  I've always loved the holidays and truly think it's the best time of the year.  Anything I can do to spread peace and joy, I'll sign up for."

 

While Maple clearly has a full docket off the ice, it hasn't held back the Vancouver Wolves so far this season when it comes to on-ice performance.  The Wolves are currently in second place in the league and are currently riding a two game winning streak.

 

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[Gaikoku-hito 2,135]

What no crazy mess this time!! At least it was another good deed being done by Maple!!