NOTTINGHAM Panthers will blast off next season against double winning Sheffield Steelers when they host the Charity Shield at the National Ice Centre on
Wednesday, September 2. With the support of the NIC management, the game will be raising funds for junior ice hockey development at the two clubs and for the family of much-loved club photographer Dave Page, who died suddenly near the end of last season, leaving a widow and 12-year-old son Daniel. Panthers are in the process of setting up a trust fund for Daniel. Sheffield defeated Panthers in the play-off final, the last game of the season, as well as winning the Elite League title ahead of Coventry and Panthers, who tied on points. League secretary Andy French said today: “It is quite fitting that junior ice hockey and the family of Dave Page should both benefit from a match up between the sport’s biggest of rivals. “Dave helped promote junior ice hockey as well as working alongside the big clubs. He was extremely well thought of around the league, especially of course in Nottingham and I think this could be a very well-supported event.” Sheffield Steelers general manager Mike O’Connor said: “Dave was a regular visitor to our rink, he was a great guy and we are pleased to be able to play our part for his family.
“It was an honour to see the tribute paid to him by the Nottingham club and the Panthers fans during last season.”