Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer: Charity Ball Hockey Tournament launches in Calgary

W. Brett Wilson Sticks It to Prostate Cancer as Honourary Chair

CALGARY, Aug. 11 /CNW/ - Scotiabank and Prostate Cancer Canada today announced a one-of-a-kind ball hockey tournament inviting Calgarians to help fight the most common cancer affecting Canadian men: Prostate Cancer. The Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer ball hockey tournament will take place in Calgary on October 3rd, 2010 with prominent Calgary philanthropist and prostate cancer survivor, W. Brett Wilson serving as honourary chair.

"The key to fighting prostate cancer is awareness, so we can fight the fight as early as possible," said W. Brett Wilson. "Events like the Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer are essential to raising the profile of this terrible disease. Please join us!"

The inaugural Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer will also feature a Survivor's Game, celebrating the courage of all men and families fighting this disease. This game will exhibit the ball hockey skills of hockey greats and local celebrities as they take on a team of prostate cancer survivors.

"Everyone knows what hockey means to Canada, and I know what this event and support will mean to tens of thousands of Canadian men and families living with prostate cancer," said Steve Jones, President and CEO of Prostate Cancer Canada. "Our goal is to make the Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer the best national charity ball event in the country. With a dedicated partner like Scotiabank, and the courage and support of survivors who will be showing their skills and sharing their stories on October 3rd there's no limit to what we can accomplish."

The Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer tournament consists of three divisions:

-   Elite: For the serious hockey enthusiasts looking for a competitive
        game. All players must be 16 years of age or older.
    -   Corporate Challenge: Corporations are encouraged to compete in a
        friendly competition in the boardroom, on the rink, and through a
        corporate fundraising challenge. Participants must be 18 years of age
        or older.
    -   Family and Friends: Open to families and friends of all ages, this
        division is an opportunity for practicing skills while having fun at
        the same time.

"As Canada's Hockey Bank, we're thrilled to host an exciting event that will engage Calgarians in the fight against a disease affecting so many men and their families," said George Marlatte, Scotiabank Senior Vice-President, Prairie Region. "Scotiabank is proud to support Prostate Cancer Canada in their vision to be a global leader in the fight against Prostate Cancer."

"It's no secret I love sports and adventure," added Wilson. "I also believe mental and physical health, laughter and inspiration are all key to beating this terrible disease. Add it all up and the Scotiabank Stick-It event is a clear winner in my books."

The Scotiabank Stick-It to Prostate Cancer tournament is now open for registration. Please visit www.stickit.net for more information. Participants who register by September 1st will be entered to win a $250 gift card from Pro Hockey Life, the ultimate hockey megastore.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank has a long tradition of supporting hockey in Canada from local teams and minor hockey associations to professional players and leagues. Through its partnerships, Scotiabank's hockey programs enrich the communities where Canadians live and work by engaging fans and players in new ways to celebrate our game. Scotiabank is the Official Bank of the NHL, NHLPA, NHL Alumni and CWHL, and has partnerships with the Calgary Flames and the Ottawa Senators whose home arena is Scotiabank Place. Scotiabank and Pro Hockey Life teamed up to provide exclusive in-store and online discounts to Scotiabank customers, promote advice on equipment and enhance the grassroots community programs of both companies. Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad. Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic activities, in 2009 the Bank provided about $39 million in sponsorships and donations to a variety of projects and initiatives, primarily in the areas of healthcare, education, social services and arts and culture. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.

About Prostate Cancer Canada

Prostate Cancer Canada is the only national foundation dedicated to the elimination of this disease through research, education, support and awareness. Prostate Cancer Canada raises funds for the development of programs related to awareness, public education, advocacy, support of the affected and research into the prevention, detection, treatment and cure of prostate cancer. For more information and to learn about testing and treatment, visit prostatecancer.ca

For further information: Michelle Cobb, Scotiabank Public Affairs, 778-327-5451 or michelle.cobb@scotiabank.com; Rebecca von Goetz, Executive Vice President, Prostate Cancer Canada, 416-441-2131, Ext. 258 or rebecca.vongoetz@prostatecancer.ca