They say third time’s the charm, but apparently not for Champagne Athletics—still winless in their very own hockey tournament. (If we’re being honest, we’re starting to wonder if Frank Sorise has some sort of cosmic hockey curse.) Nevertheless, the real winner of the night was the Clark Park Coalition, as the Third Annual Champagne Showcase raised a whopping $13,107 to support youth programming and facilities in Detroit’s beloved southwest ice rink.

Despite Detroit’s infamous February chill, the community turned out in force on February 23, 2024, proving that a little frostbite is a small price to pay for a great cause. Fans were greeted with the aroma of mouthwatering eats from local food icons Taqueria El Rey, Delectabowl, and Diamond’s Dogs, while raffle tables tempted attendees with incredible prizes like a Solo Stove, spa packages, and vintage Red Wings memorabilia. Oh, and don’t forget the roasted s’mores—because nothing says hockey like sticky fingers and melted marshmallows.

As the sun set, the rink came alive under the glow of stadium lights. Four teams took to the ice: Iron Fish Distillery (Troy Anderson), Bowline Financial (John Herbert), Iris Mortgage (Chris & Katherine Thomas), and the yet-to-win (but always optimistic) Champagne Athletics, captained by Frank Sorise himself. Despite Sorise’s best efforts—and maybe a little divine intervention—Champagne Athletics found themselves on the wrong end of the scoreboard yet again.

Master of ceremonies Zach Schrode kept spirits high with his sharp wit, on-ice interviews, and expertly managed trophy presentations, while Kassidy Herbert and Sarah Sorise worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure raffle tickets were flying off the table. Thanks to contributions from the crowd, sponsors, and vendors, the event’s fundraising efforts soared to new heights.

Of course, none of this would’ve been possible without the incredible lineup of sponsors and donors who stepped up in a big way:

Team Sponsors:

• Iron Fish Distillery
• Bowline Financial
• Iris Mortgage
• Champagne Athletics (Bless their hearts—maybe next year?)

Raffle Sponsors:

• Joe Simancas, @properties Realtor (Solo Stove)
• Mullybox (Golf goodies)
• Bettermade Chips (Snack lovers unite!)
• 2Putt Apparel (Stylish golf gear)
• Dog and Pony Show Brewing (Brew-tastic gift box)
• The Lon Next Door (Spa vibes)
• Greyson Clothiers (Hat swag)
• Hustle Threads (Raffle goods + pop-up shop)
• Detroit City Distillery (Cheers to that!)
• SMPL Candle Co (Scented delights)
• Clarkston Elementary First Grade Class (Handmade bracelets and keychains—adorable.)

On-Site Food & Beverage Heroes:

• Taqueria El Rey
• Delectabowl
• Diamond’s Dogs
• Benstein Liquor (Espresso martinis—yes, please!)
• VOSA (Vodka Water and High Line Vodka cocktails—keeping us warm in style.)

Special Shoutouts:

A huge thank you to rink manager Anthony Benavides and his team for hosting this annual shinny showdown, and to Detroit Red Wings staff photographers Troy Anderson and Dan Mannes for capturing every hilarious, heartwarming, and hockey-filled moment.

While Champagne Athletics may have left the ice without a win (again), they walked away with full hearts and the satisfaction of knowing that, together with this amazing community, they’ve made a significant impact for the Clark Park Coalition. Here’s hoping the fourth time’s the charm…but let’s not hold our breath.

See you next year for more hockey, hilarity, and hopefully a Champagne Athletics win. Or at least a goal. Baby steps, right?