Whalers, Spitfires to hold preseason fundraising game for family of the late John Bieniewicz

August 8, 2014August 8, 2014 MiHockey Staff

whalers spitfires 608 — Last year, the Whalers and Spitfires took part in a charity preseason game at Livonia's Eddie Edgar Ice Arena to raise funds for a memorial being built in a Livonia park. (Photo by Andrew Knapik/MiHockey)

By @MichaelCaples –

The Plymouth Whalers and the Windsor Spitfires are going to play in a preseason contest on Saturday, Aug. 30.

What they’re playing for is a lot more than just summer conditioning.

The two OHL rivals will square off in a game that will be serving as a fundraiser for the family of John Bieniewicz, a Livonia soccer referee who passed away during a game after being punched by an adult player.

The game – officially being called “Play It Forward For Bieniewicz” will have 100 percent of its proceeds go to the John Bieniewicz Foundation and C.O.P.S. (Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors). Puck drop is scheduled for 2 p.m.

Tickets will cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. They can be purchased on the Whalers’ official site or by calling the Livonia Police Department (734-466-2470).

Admission to the game will also include a meet-and-greet with the Whalers players after the contest.

Bieniewicz passed away after being allegedly punched by Bassel Saad on June 29. Saad is currently on trial for the altercation.