Oilers fans fire pucks at Flames-branded van for charity ahead of Game 1

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    Alberta premier demands apology from Jasper

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    An Edmonton sports store is raising money and collecting used sports equipment for kids in a fun way. Those who donate can take a shoot a hockey puck at an old van covered in spray painted Flames logos.

    The long-awaited Battle of Alberta is heating up not only on the ice, but off it as well.

    As the players make the final preparations ahead of Game 1 between the Oilers and Flames Wednesday, a charity event is allowing people to take a slap shot at a Calgary Flames-branded van.

    The event took place at United Sport & Cycle in south Edmonton.

    “We got great Flames fans here in Edmonton, and of course Oilers fans all over, so it’s fun to have that banter back and forth and this is a fun way to do it,” said manager Kelly Hodgson.

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      By bringing in donation money or used sporting goods, fans can launch a puck at the maroon-coloured van with the words “Calgary sucks” and “You’re in Oil Country” spray-painted on the side.

      The donations go to Sport Central, a group that refurbishes used sports equipment. They, in turn, give the equipment to children in need so one day they may become the Connor McDavid of their generation.

      “So many of us recognize the power of sport and what it’s able to do for kids in our community,” Hodgson said. “And for those who can’t afford it, they provide the equipment that is necessary.”


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      While only one team will win the series, the entire province benefits in a way: an Alberta team is guaranteed to reach the third round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

      “No matter who wins, someone from Alberta is moving onto the next round of the playoffs,” said David Rast, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Alberta.”

      Rast believes hockey and this series can bring the province together.

      “We even have the mayors of the cities making friendly bets with each other, it’s just fun all around,” he said. “And I think people let their emotions get the best of them and get swept up, and it’s no longer a hockey match, it’s fighting over the heart and soul of Alberta.”

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