Chicago

Blackhawks' Eddie Olczyk Takes ‘One More Shift' at United Center on Hockey Fights Cancer Night

The 52-year-old Olczyk was Chicago's first-round draft pick (third overall) in 1985, and underwent surgery and follow-up treatment for colon cancer last year

The Blackhawks honored broadcaster, Chicago native and 16-year NHL veteran Eddie Olczyk before their game against the Minnesota Wild Sunday.

The "One More Shift" pregame ceremony landed on Hockey Fights Cancer night.

The 52-year-old Olczyk was Chicago's first-round draft pick (third overall) in 1985, and underwent surgery and follow-up treatment for colon cancer last year.

The Blackhawks also hosted a special Purple Carpet event in the United Center atrium before the game, honoring fans battling cancer and those who have lost loved ones to the disease.

The first 10,000 fans entering the United Center for the game received a Blackhawks cancer awareness hat.

During pregame warm-ups, players wore special lavender jerseys, and autographed them as they came off the ice. Those jerseys will be auctioned off on the team’s website and all proceeds from the sales will go to local cancer-related organizations.

The team also honored five local children during the National Anthem through a partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Bear Necessities.

Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad scored first-period goals, Crawford made 39 saves and Chicago held on to defeat the Minnesota Wild 3-1 on Sunday night.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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