The spirit and memory of Peterborough Petes Booster Club founding member Betty Nelson is being honoured by the team and the Peterborough Minor Hockey Council (PMHC) during game four of the Eastern Conference Semi-Final on Thursday.
Nelson passed away on March 31, the same day the Petes took a 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference quarterfinal against the Sudbury Wolves.
She was a founding member of the Petes Booster Club and volunteered to sell 50/50 tickets at almost every home game at the Memorial Centre from 1967 until retiring in 2019. She was revered, especially at the Gibson’s Finest Club Section, forming bonds with several fans over the years.
The PMHC, who operates the 50/50 draws, is donating a portion of the proceeds to a fund in Nelson’s name, which will be used to support members of the Petes community. Tickets can be purchased beginning on Wednesday until the end of the second intermission on Thursday night. The largest ever guaranteed 50/50 jackpot has a minimum of $5,000 to be won.
The Petes are paying tribute to the Bosoter Club founding member in a special presentation during the first-period TV timeout on Thursday. Fans are encouraged to show their support and appreciation of Nelson at that time.
“Having the opportunity to pay tribute to Betty during a playoff game is very special, as she was one of our most passionate supporters throughout all of Petes history and would have been so excited to take part in this playoff run,” said Burton Lee, Petes executive director of business operations. “You could always count on Betty, game-in and game-out and her persistence and commitment serves as a model for so many volunteers that help our team thrive. She will forever hold a prominent place in the hearts of Petes players, staff and fans.”
The Petes are back in action for game four on Thursday to try and take a commanding 3-1 series over the Ottawa 67’s. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m.