The London Lightning are going purple again this year.
The annual Shine the Light game will see players trade their yellow jerseys for purple ones for Thursday's game against the Saint John Riptide at Budweiser Gardens. The game brings to a close the month long campaign by the London Abused Women's Centre (LAWC) that casts a spotlight on the issue of men’s violence against women.
"It is very important for us to be a part of this campaign. We have a very large reach in London," said Lightning spokesperson Laura Vere. "So we are not only showing we support it and are aware of what is going on in our own community, but bringing more awareness to it for LAWC and giving them another platform to spread the word."
Fans can bid on their favourite player's purple jersey at a silent auction table set up on the concourse throughout the game. Shine the Light merchandise will also be available with all proceeds going to LAWC for front line services.
An awareness video will be shown during a special ceremony prior to the 7pm tip-off.
"During that pregame ceremony we always turn off the lights and ask everybody in attendance to shine their light. That moment is amazing. The whole arena lights up with phones," said Vere.
The Lightning have been partnering with the LAWC since 2011. The colour purple is used during the Shine the Light campaign because it is a symbol of courage, survival, and honour.
Those heading to the game are asked to show their support for the cause by wearing purple.
