WATERLOO REGION – The annual Hot Shots Street Hockey Tournament for Family and Children’s Services Foundation is back, and its organizers are kicking things off in true street hockey style with the 4th annual VIP pre-tournament presented by the Waterloo Region Record on Wednesday, May 6th from 11:30AM to 1:00PM.

In that two-hour span, media and dignitaries from across the region will take to the street (Hellman Road to be exact) at Sportsworld Crossing to take on a ‘surprise, mystery team’, all in support of vulnerable children. The event will be MC’d by the Record’s own Sports Editor, Ron De Ruyter.

“Bragging rights have belonged to the mystery team” said Jim Phillips, Executive Director of the Foundation, adding with a smile, “—but, who knows what this year will bring? Our dignitaries and media have had four years of practice, after all.”

After an exciting game, this year guests will be treated to Papa Soly’s Delicious Hot and Frozen Foods Ready to Go! A hearty assortment of beef on a bun, lasagna, garlic bread, Caesar salad, and a variety of dessert squares will help players recharge as they hear what this tournament means for children at risk of abuse or neglect.

“The actual Tournament on May 30th raises funds to help children living in our community have recreational experiences, including summer camp, team sports and music lessons. These opportunities give children the chance to learn new things, meet new people and, most importantly, just be kids,” says Phillips. “Without these much needed dollars, they wouldn’t have the opportunity to participate in these opportunities which are so important to their learning and development. “

“These activities can be expensive and this year more than ever, not financially possible for the children of some families,” says Phillips. “The children who need it most.”

At any point in time Family and Children’s Services has over 500 children in its care and are working with over 1200 families in the community. In 2008, 150 weeks of camp were provided to children through the tournament. Unfortunately, we received requests from 600 children.

To find out more about the 4th annual Hot Shots Street Hockey Tournament, go to www.hotshotstournament.com.

Papa Solys offers a wide selection of frozen food choices and a great choice of hot and ready meal items. Their frozen food selection includes a variety of Chicken, Steak, Seafood, Entrees, Appetizers, Soups and Dessert items. Papa Solys also offers a complete hot buffet selection. This includes a variety of HOT delicious meals from sliced beef, rotisserie chickens, stuffed chicken, sliced turkey, vegetables, mashed or seasoned potato wedges, lasagna, and chili. All HOT and Ready To Go!