The PLAY LIKE RAY Challenge at Minoru Arenas is BACK!
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 | Minoru Arenas | Both Ice Rinks
Hockey is a game of passion, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that Raymond Sawada embodied both on and off the ice.
Last year, our community came together and raised over $40,000 to honour Ray's legacy. This year, we're doubling down on impact.
Mark your calendars. Clear your Saturday.
Ray's story continues September 6th.
Proudly Partnered with:
LAST YEAR'S LEGACY: OVER $40,000 RAISED
When our community came together for the inaugural Play Like Ray Challenge, something magical happened. Thanks to generous sponsors, dedicated volunteers, passionate bidders, and hockey fans who showed up—we raised over $40,000 in Ray's honor.
THE IMPACT:
$10,000 to KidSport Richmond - providing access to organized sports for kids who need it most
$10,000 to Forward Foundation - creating meaningful experiences for young adults with life-limiting conditions
Ray's compassion for people and zest for life now lives on through every young athlete who gets to experience the same joy, camaraderie, and life lessons that Ray so dearly cherished.
This year, we're not just repeating success—we're amplifying it.
ONE DAY. TWO RINKS. ENDLESS IMPACT.
This year's Play Like Ray Challenge brings the heat with 10 invited teams battling it out from 8am to 5pm on both ice surfaces at Minoru Arenas—the same ice where Ray learned to skate and where his Richmond Sockeyes jersey #27 now hangs proudly in the rafters.
THE LINEUP:
5 Competitive Division Teams (Victoria Cup)
5 Fun Division Teams (Charlotte Cup)
All-day hockey action across both rinks
Silent auction, 50/50 draws, beer garden, and food truck
Official After Party hosted at the Marriott Hotel
Every puck drop, every goal, every cheer supports KidSport Richmond and the Forward Foundation—ensuring Ray's compassion for people and zest for life lives on through the next generation.
INVEST IN IMPACT. SPONSOR A LEGACY.
Last year's incredible sponsors helped us raise over $40,000 for young athletes and young adults with life-limiting illnesses. Your support doesn't just fund a tournament—it funds futures, dreams, and opportunities that Ray would be absolutely thrilled to see.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED:
Cash sponsorship - Direct investment in community impact
Silent auction donations - Experiences, memorabilia, getaways that get people bidding
In-kind partnerships - Services, venues, expertise that make magic happen
Ready to be part of something bigger? Email: [email protected]
Services
TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE IS LIVE!
The inaugural Play Like Ray Challenge ice hockey tournament schedule is LIVE!
We’ve got 2 days of exciting hockey action on Minoru’s iconic Stadium arena across two divisions:
The “Victoria Cup” Competitive Division showcases Burnaby Firefighters’ and Richmond Firefighters’ top teams, and Raymond’s own Cowboys team with some of Richmond’s most talented lacing up.
The “Charlotte Cup” Fun Division features teams from EA Sports and the Richmond Ravens, and two more full rosters of Burnaby and Richmond Firefighters.
There will be no shortage of incredible hockey to watch–join us cheering in the stands, face off on the screen in the EA Sports Lounge, check out some of the incredible silent auction prizes on the mezzanine level (and bid online), or enjoy a cold one in our beer garden section (19+).
We look forward to seeing you at the rink on September 7th and 8th!
"Play Like Ray is more than just a series of games; it's a tribute to a life that touched many and left an indelible mark on our hearts."
REMEMBERING RAYMOND SAWADA
The Play Like Ray Challenge celebrates the life of Richmond native, Raymond Sawada, featuring an ice hockey tournament in his honour. Raymond tragically passed away in 2023 playing the game he loved, leaving behind his wife, Nicole, and two girls, Victoria and Charlotte.
Ray grew up playing ice hockey, eventually playing professionally in the NHL for the Dallas Stars. He actually learned to skate at Minoru Arenas and played for the Richmond Sockeyes on the very sheet of ice that the inaugural Play Like Ray tournament is hosted.
We are so grateful for the amazing photos that [photographer's name] took of our wedding day.
Jane Doe
[Photographer's name] is an incredibly talented photographer.
Jane Doe
Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our email list to stay updated on everything from the tournament: silent auction, beer garden, food trucks, 50/50 raffle, entertainment, Play like Ray merchandise and more!
FAQS
What types of photography do you specialize in?
I specialize in [list of photography specialties, such as wedding photography, portrait photography, landscape photography, etc.]. However, I am always open to new challenges and would be happy to discuss any type of photography project that you have in mind.
What is your pricing like?
My pricing varies depending on the type of photography session, the location, and the number of hours required. However, I offer a variety of packages to fit all budgets. I also offer a free consultation so that we can discuss your specific needs and budget in more detail.
How long does it take to receive my photos?
I typically deliver my photos within 2-4 weeks of your session. However, this turnaround time may vary depending on the time of year and the volume of work that I have. I will always keep you updated on the status of your photos and let you know as soon as they are ready.
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