Team to honour 'Grandma Rush' at 2017 home opener

She’s always telling the Saskatchewan Rush to kick ass – now players want her to do the same.

Arguably the team’s most beloved fan, 85-year-old Joyce Souka is better known as Grandma Rush. She travels in for every game at SaskTel Centre from Edmonton, the former home of the Rush.

“Where do I start with such an amazing character like Grandma Rush?” defender Ryan Dilks said in a video for Souka.

“The respect for her in the lacrosse community is huge,” added goaltender Aaron Bold.

Grandma Rush was diagnosed with cancer last November.

Since then, players have rallied together for their biggest supporter, and someone they consider family.

It will be a special night Saturday, as we honour Grandma Rush. Purchase one of her replica tees for $20, proceeds go to @cancersociety! pic.twitter.com/WuWZM8ZwlX

— Saskatchewan Rush (@SaskRushLAX) January 19, 2017

“After the first days of my playing career in Edmonton, she’d come up to give me a big hug and kiss on the cheek to tell you how great you played,” forward Robert Church said.

Souka will be honoured at Saturday’s home opener, but Rush officials want to keep the details a surprise.

“She will be well honoured, but you’ve got to wait and see,” said Rush president Lee Genier.

The Rush store is selling limited edition t-shirts for $20 with all proceeds benefitting the Canadian Cancer Society.

“The guys love her and anything we can do to help her is important,” Genier said.

Here is everything you need to know to prepare for the Home Opener this Sat. #RushNation: https://t.co/5WvEjnEnbx

Pres: @DakotaDunesSIGA pic.twitter.com/WrzeScS1zG

— Saskatchewan Rush (@SaskRushLAX) January 17, 2017

2017 Home Opener

The Rush home opener starts Saturday at 7:30 p.m. against Rochester. Only 900 tickets were left as of Thursday afternoon.

“It will be a sell out, so you better get them now,” Genier said.

A banner raising ceremony will commence at 7:20 p.m., and Sask.-based group Butterfinger will perform at half-time. The 50/50 will also start at $50,000.

“It’s easily going to get to $100, 000,” Genier said.