RELEASE: Third annual Dave's Drive in support of Sport Central

EDMONTON, AB - The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) announced today, in partnership with Sport Central, the third annual Dave's Drive in support of disadvantaged children in the Edmonton community.
The campaign, named after legendary Oilers enforcer Dave Semenko, runs for two weeks officially starting Friday, Nov. 13 and ending on Friday, Nov. 27, coinciding with Semenko's jersey number.
Dave's Drive encourages both awareness of Sport Central as well as donations of funds and sports equipment to disadvantaged youth in and around the Edmonton area. To kick off this year's Dave's Drive, the EOCF, with support from the Oilers Alumni, are donating 1,200 pieces of new youth hockey equipment and invite fans to give what they can to make the campaign a success.
For the second year, longtime teammate, friend of Semenko and 2020 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Kevin Lowe was named official ambassador for Dave's Drive.
"Dave was really one of the Oilers greats," Lowe said. "He was always so passionate about helping others. Dave's Drive will continue to further his legacy and help raise funds, while providing equipment for Edmonton's youth so that everyone can have a chance to play the sport they love. This is an amazing way to remember Dave and help kids in our community."

Semenko had a 40-year relationship with the Oilers franchise, playing an important role on the Oilers teams through the 1980s, including two Stanley Cup championships in 1984 and 1985, as a scout in the 1990s and 2000s, and later as an official Oilers ambassador.
He lost a courageous battle to cancer in June 2017. In his memory, the EOCF has joined forces with Sport Central to help the children of low-income families receive the gear they need to access sport opportunities.
"Sport Central is proud to carry on the legacy of Dave Semenko through this annual drive for kids in need," said Sheldon Oleksyn, Sport Central's Executive Director. "Edmontonians can participate by donating funds, gently-used equipment or volunteer time to Sport Central. Everyone can participate while honouring Dave's commitment to team and Edmonton."
Sport Central was formed in 1991 and was created by community-minded individuals who saw the need to provide children with access to necessary sports equipment. Since its inception, Sport Central has enabled more than 160,000 low-income kids to participate in the sport of their choice with safe gear.
"Dave Semenko made sure his teammates could play and enjoy the game. In his spirit, fans can do the same for kids who dream of playing but can't afford the gear," Oleksyn said.
To learn more about Dave's Drive, or to make a cash donation, visit
SportCentral.org
.