Two fathers battling cancer receive support from family, friends, community at Salmon River hockey game

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Gary Collette and Brian Lewis participate in a ceremonial puck drop with their sons ahead of the Salmon River-Ogdensburg Free Academy game on Jan. 6. From left: Evan Collette, Brian Lewis, Gary Collette and Chase Lewis. Photo submitted.

FORT COVINGTON — Two fathers battling cancer were honored by their sons and the school community during a recent hockey game.

Members of the Salmon River Central School District community came out to the Tom Cavanaugh Arena on Friday, Jan. 6, to show some support for two members of the community.

The ‘Purple Out’ event was held, encouraging community members to wear purple clothing to the game, which signifies support for cancer awareness.

Gary Collette, a current Salmon River Board of Education member, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year. His son, Evan Collette, is also a Salmon River student and a member of the hockey team.

Additionally, Brian Lewis, father of Salmon River Student and Hockey Player Chase Lewis, is also battling cancer. Both Gary Collette and Brian Lewis were recognized at the game. The pair participated in a ceremonial puck drop alongside their sons ahead of the game against Ogdensburg Free Academy.

During the game, Evan Collette scored the first goal and Chase Lewis had a hat trick. In addition to community members wearing purple, the whole hockey team wore special purple jerseys during the game.

The Shamrocks beat Ogdensburg Free Academy 7-0.

Leading up to the game, many Salmon River students and staff wore purple during the school day to show their support as well.