- Jon DeBoer
- February 16, 2023
Ford Motor Company and General Motors female employee hockey teams return to Clark Park’s outdoor hockey rink to face off for charity Saturday, February 18. Doors open at 6:00 with puck drop by Deborah Wahl, GM Senior VP and Global Chief Marketing Officer, at 7 pm.
The 5th Annual GM vs. Ford Automotive Cup will feature a game with three 15-minute periods, concessions donated by Green Dot Stables and Motor City Brewing Works, the wildly popular Chuck-a-Puck, and a silent auction. All proceeds benefit Clark Park Coalition and Matrix Theatre Company, two nonprofits located in southwest Detroit. A $5 donation at the gate is suggested.
“The team that wins the game takes home the trophy and bragging rights for the year, but the team that raises the most cash for the two charities gets naming rights for the 2024 game,” said Megan Buckley-Ball, co-founder of the event. “It’s easy. Prior to game day, go to matrixtheatre.org, click the Donate button and help the team of your choice, Team Ford or Team GM, to raise the most money. Game attendees will have the opportunity to attribute their admission and concession donations to their favorite team, as well.” In addition to the hockey game, this year’s event will also include a 50/50 raffle and some fun outdoor games.
“This game is significant,” said Birdie Buckley-Ball, GM employee and co-creator of the Automotive Cup. “Ford and GM have each won two games apiece. This game is the grudge match. We’re thrilled to have Deborah Wahl, Senior VP and global chief marketing officer dropping the puck to begin this decisive game.”
“We’re happy to be partnering again with Matrix Theatre for this event,” said Clark Park Executive Director Anthony Benavides. “Each year we look forward to this great event, as we watch it grow. This year is no exception.”
“This is a great partnership,” said Buckley-Ball. “Hockey and theatre complement each other and are great tools that teach collaboration and teamwork and inspire youth to be the best at what they do. We’re all looking forward to a great day on the ice for a good cause.”
Sponsors for the 5th Annual Women’s Automotive Cup include Ideal Contracting, the Brennan Group, Crossover Solutions, Pappas Consulting, Molly McMahon & Brian Cronin, and James Pappas.
For further information, or to donate online, visit www.matrixtheatre.org. To donate by check, make it payable to Matrix Theatre Company, and mail it to 2730 Bagley, Detroit, MI 48216.
