Online 50/50 Introduces Fans to the Sens Community Foundation's Mission

It's not an
Ottawa Senators
home game without the iconic 50/50, which not only gives fans a chance to win big but also supports important initiatives in the community. This season, the Senators Community Foundation, formed in 2020, is reintroducing the 50/50-but with a new twist. The team and Foundation have launched a brand-new online platform that is available to Senators fans throughout Ontario, not just those at the game.

The first
50/50 lottery
will be held on March 14, when the Senators host the Toronto Maple Leafs, followed by a $9,999 guaranteed jackpot on Monday when the team hosts Vancouver. Most importantly, all proceeds from Monday's game will benefit Canadian Blood Services to honour late Senators fan and CFRA 580 producer, Brian Fraser, who recently lost a hard-fought battle with leukemia. "We're very proud to donate the initiative's initial funds in Brian's memory, given that he was such a staunch supporter of both the Senators and the city of Ottawa," says Eugene Melnyk, Senators owner and governor.
Because the virtual 50/50 platform will increase the number of potential players, those who participate can look forward to larger jackpots and more exciting competition. Plus, they'll be contributing to the greater good of youth in communities across Ottawa and the surrounding region. "It's our responsibility to do what we can to support the community that supports our team," adds Melnyk. "We are confident that this new initiative will better fund local programs in need of our support."
Of course, the 50/50 is just one of the initiatives that the Senators Community Foundation has in the works. Founded upon three pillars, including mind, body, and soul, its mission is to strengthen the connection between the Senators and community by addressing the issues of accessibility and inclusion. To this end, the team, Foundation's staff and volunteers, and local partners work as a team to identify opportunities where proceeds from the 50/50 and other initiatives can make a difference.
Heading the Foundation's efforts is someone who knows the value of teamwork quite well-former Senators defenceman, alternate captain, and community ambassador, Chris Phillips. Affectionately known by fans as #4, he is now serving as the Executive Director for the Senators Community Foundation and feels right at home in his new role. "When I was approached to join the new Foundation, it just seemed like the right fit," says Phillips.
As a rookie on the Senators, Phillips first became involved in the team's philanthropic efforts when veteran teammate Lance Pitlick invited him to a fundraiser for Candlelighters of Ottawa, which supports local children with cancer and their families. "That experience really opened my eyes to the impact players and the team can have in the community, and it taught me the responsibility you have as a professional athlete," says Phillips. "I fell in love with this kind of work-making an impact on people, especially the kids, and hearing the meaningful feedback you get from them."
After his playing days, Phillips served as an ambassador for the Senators, attending games and working with partners in the community. Now, he's utilizing his career-long passion for service to lead the Foundation's efforts, including the new 50/50 and initiatives like
Catch the Ace
. "We're excited to get things rolling and have the chance to support charities that make a difference for children and youth," says Phillips. "Even when we have a bad game and fans aren't happy about it, we're still doing great things in the community. There is such a strong connection between the team and community that makes us all realize the importance of what we're doing-it goes far beyond just winning and losing hockey games."
Supporting Phillips is Senior Director Brad Weir, a longtime Ottawa resident who has previously served in other capacities in the Senators organization, from ticket sales to marketing for the former Ottawa Senators Foundation. "As with any successful foundation, it relies on the strength of its relationships," says Anthony LeBlanc, President of Business Operations. "Given Brad's long-standing working experience with many of the Canadian charities with which our new Foundation looks forward to partnering, his transition to this new role will be seamless."
To purchase 50/50 tickets or learn more about
supporting the Senators Community Foundation
, visit
nhl.com/senators/community/foundation
.