In a commendable initiative, the Tampa Bay Lightning team’s head coach, Jon Cooper, along with the entire roster, will be participating in the seventh annual Coop’s Catch for Kids. This exclusive event, occurring on Monday, focuses on raising funds for pediatric cancer research.
An invitation-only event, Coop’s Catch for Kids, blends the enjoyment of fishing with the heartfelt purpose of supporting pediatric cancer research. The gathering, initiated by Jon Cooper and his wife Jessie in 2016, has grown into a prominent annual occasion designed to bring together the community and Tampa Bay Lightning celebrities.
The event involves a catch-and-release inshore grand slam tournament where team members and participating anglers form pairs on guided boats. Each year, these enthusiastic participants look forward to a day filled with both camaraderie and competitive spirit on the water.
After the fishing concludes, a reception is held where the most notable catches are recognized with awards. However, the event extends beyond fishing as it opens doors for discussions about resilience and triumph over adversity. A local child who has battled cancer is invited as a Guest of Honor to share their inspiring journey and experiences with the attendees.
Funds generated from the event are directed to the J5 Foundation — a charitable organization established by the Cooper family in 2022. The foundation focuses on providing much-needed support for pediatric cancer research, emphasizing the family’s deep commitment to this cause.
The participation of the Lightning team highlights the power of community engagement in responding to and supporting critical health challenges. By combining the love for sports and compassion for children battling cancer, events like Coop’s Catch for Kids pave the way for meaningful impacts and hope.
Source: Fox13news
