Local hockey players from the Winkler Royals took part in the fourth annual fundraiser sledge hockey game to raise money for the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Manitoba.

Organizer Nancy Spenst explains the February 17 game featured the Royals against the Manitoba Sledgehammers at the Winkler Arena and was the most successful year yet.

In total, the event raised $2,145 and saw 140 in attendance.

"It's a ton of fun," she says, noting the idea for the fundraiser came to her after watching a friend play the game. "I thought it was a really cool thing and wondered if we could bring it to Winkler."

All funds raised help cover medication and equipment costs, as well as recreation costs for kids interested in playing sledge hockey. Along with raising funds the game is an opportunity to raise awareness about Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

"It's making sure people know there's others out there that can help you, answer questions, and help with funding," she says.

Spina Bifida occurs when the spinal cord is not developed properly at birth. Hydrocephalus refers to fluid around the brain, and often occurs in people living with Spina Bifida.

Fans were also invited to take part in the stuffy toss, which were donated to local charity, Katie Cares.