The NHL and NHLPA, in partnership with the V Foundation for Cancer Research and presented by AstraZeneca, are kicking off the 27th season of Hockey Fights Cancer™, bringing fans together to raise awareness, fund research, and support those affected by cancer. The initiative will be spotlighted at the Prudential Center in Newark on November 29, 2025, featuring special events and interactive experiences, while the Philadelphia Flyers host their Hockey Fights Cancer game on November 20, and the New York Rangers take part on January 6, 2026. This long-running program combines the passion of hockey with meaningful outreach, uniting teams, players, and fans in the fight against cancer.
Since its inception in 1998, Hockey Fights Cancer™ has raised over $44 million through grassroots and league-wide initiatives, becoming the first major professional sports league program dedicated to a national cause. In 2023, the V Foundation officially joined the initiative as its charitable partner, and AstraZeneca became its first corporate partner in the U.S., accelerating the impact of donations. In just two years, the partnership has contributed more than $12 million to life-saving cancer research, thanks to the collective efforts of all 32 NHL teams, corporate sponsors, and fans worldwide.
Fans are encouraged to participate in the initiative by downloading their own “I Fight For” card, available in both English and French. The card allows supporters to honor loved ones affected by cancer, add a personal message, and share their story on social media using the hashtag #HockeyFightsCancer. This interactive element strengthens the connection between the hockey community and the cause, highlighting the personal side of the fight against cancer.
A standout contributor to this effort is Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin. Already the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, Ovechkin has launched THE GR8 CHASE for Victory Over Cancer®, pledging to donate to pediatric cancer research for every regular-season goal he scores for the remainder of his career. Monumental Sports & Entertainment is matching his donations, and 100% of the funds raised go directly to the V Foundation, creating the Alex Ovechkin GR8 Chase Pediatric Cancer Research Grant. This program is funding cutting-edge research dedicated to combating childhood cancers while allowing fans to join the cause through donations and events.
The 2025 Mystery Puck Sweepstakes offers fans a chance to win autographed pucks from some of hockey’s biggest stars, including Ovechkin, Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, and Cale Makar. Tickets start at $50, with all proceeds supporting life-saving cancer research. The sweepstakes runs through November 30, 2025, with winners notified by December 2 and pucks delivered within four weeks. This interactive fundraiser provides hockey enthusiasts with an exciting way to give back while connecting with their favorite players.
The V Foundation for Cancer Research, established in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary NC State basketball coach and commentator, has distributed nearly $400 million in research grants nationwide. Guided by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee, these funds support pioneering cancer research programs that are making meaningful advancements in patient care and treatment.
As the hockey season heats up, the 27th edition of Hockey Fights Cancer™ demonstrates the sport’s power to bring communities together, offering fans in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York a chance to support a meaningful cause while celebrating the game they love. Hockey enthusiasts looking to engage with local events, participate in fundraisers, or learn more about the initiative can explore additional coverage on Explore New Jersey’s Hockey category, connecting the excitement of live games with opportunities to make a lasting impact.
Download Your Own ‘I Fight For’ Card
The hockey community is a family. And, like most families, we all know someone who has been affected by cancer.
Join us by representing who you fight for!
- Download the card in English or French
- Personalize it with your supportive message
- Share a photo of you & your card on social, and tag it #HockeyFightsCancer
