The fourth annual Dr. Dennis B. Freilich, Rapid Fire Yeshiva High School Ice Hockey Benefit Tournament will take place this Sunday, March 31, at the Prudential Centers’ Barnabas Hockey House in Newark, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The facility is home to the New Jersey Devils. The event was moved there from the Mackay Ice Arena in Englewood, due to mechanical issues that occurred last Sunday.

There will be players representing TABC, SAR, Ramaz, Frisch, JEC, Flatbush, Kushner, DRS, Heichal, Shaarei Torah and MTA. Last year, the event attracted over 100 yeshiva high school students. With hockey’s growing popularity in our community, an even greater turnout is expected this year. Teams will continuously play quick 15 minute games throughout the evening while consuming large amounts of pizza.

This year, the tournament will benefit The Friendship Circle of Bergen County. Under the spirited leadership of Rabbi Moshe Grossbaum and his wife Zeesy, The Friendship Circle’s unique approach brings together teenage volunteers and children with special needs for hours of fun and friendship. These shared experiences empower children with special needs, while enriching the lives of everyone involved.

Dr. Dennis Freilich was a close friend and proud supporter of youth ice hockey in our community. He was a passionate fan and could regularly be found at Madison Square Garden watching his beloved New York Rangers—always with his children and grandchildren. Dr. Freilich’s love of the game lives on with great passion in his family and all those that knew him.

By Ralph Abecassis