Dallas Stars Big Heart Celebrity Challenge

On September 27th, the Comerica Center, in Frisco, Texas buzzed with anticipation as the beloved Dallas Stars prepared to take the ice for a cause that transcended the boundaries of sport.

It was the night of the Dallas Stars Big Heart Celebrity Challenge, an annual event that brings together the best of hockey with the purpose of philanthropy in the Lone Star State.

The event, in its 5^th year, began with a vision from Marty Turco, President of the Dallas Stars Foundation, from when he visited Canada at similar locations and was inspired by their charitable hockey events.

His vision entailed NHL Alumni raising money for the Grant Halliburton Foundation which according to their website “works to strengthen the network of mental health resources for children, teens, and young adults; promote better mental health; and prevent suicide.”

– Our Story — Grant Halliburton Foundation

“This foundation was selected because of its similarities with how the hockey players actively support and look out for each other’s health and safety.” states Bob Bassen, Director of Alumni and New Business Development.

Prior to the evening’s event, each hockey Team selected a sponsor organization to assist in raising charitable donations, and whoever raised the highest amount of money would “draft” their hockey player first.

HPA Design Group proudly sponsored the Lone Star Warriors team.

The evening of the event, held at the Comerica Center, a live auction raised additional funds for charity, and the Sponsorship organizations were introduced to their ‘draft’ teams and Alumni. The teams had been fundraising for 3 months prior to that Thursday and whoever raised the highest amount of money would draft first.

The event commenced with Hall of Famers players, like Brett Hull, a Canadian-American former player for the Dallas Stars and the St. Louis Blues. During the event’s round table, we were regaled with entertaining stories from Hall of Famers like Brett Hull, as well as other prestigious Alumni. Three games were played the following day by each of the teams, on behalf of the sponsoring organizations, all of which played in the spirit of sportsmanship and charity.

“The Dallas Stars Foundation’s 5th Annual Stars Big Heart Celebrity Challenge raised over $400,000 for a great charity.” remarks Mr. Bassen.

As part of our continuous charitable efforts to support the community and give back to those in need, HPAD was proud to sponsor this event, with the proceeds going to a charity that helps children and young adults with mental health, and highlighting our support of the men and women who serve our country with the Lone Star Warriors.