Remembering Ryan Benson: Hockey Tournament and Auction to Be Held Saturday

Ryan Benson was a friend to many, and an "intricate part of the team," said Michael Rinsem, founder of the South Hills Misfits hockey team and longtime pal.

Since Benson's death in a , Rinsem has been trying to organize an event in his memory.

"We've been spending a lot of time since he passed, and it's been 'what can we do to get our community together to honor his memory?'" he said. 

A cohesive effort between the Misfits and Benson's family, they did just that. 

Saturday, April 2, the South Hills Misfits are hosting a memorial hockey tournament and auction from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m at the , who's staff generously donated rink time. 

"It's going to be a tough day, but a fun day," Rinsem said. "All in memory of Ryan."

As per Benson's family's request, all proceeds will be donated to the Mario Lemieux Foundation in his name. 

"The outpouring of support has just been amazing," Rinsem said. "It brings tears to my eyes seeing the community come together."

The Misfits came to fruition years back when a handful of individual players, including Benson and Rinsem, showed up at the rink without a team. So, they started their own, and chose Francis the elephant, from the "Island of Misfit Toys," as their mascot. 

"We always played for Francis," Rinsem said. "But, now we play for No. 14 (Benson's number), and that's our rallying cry." 

A Chinese auction will be held during the day, in addition to the tournament. 

"The autographed Mario Lemieux jersey has already generated a lot of response," Rinsem said. "We've been working on donations and absolutely crushing it." 

More than 20 baskets will be auctioned, including goodies from the , signed Penguins paraphernalia, a salon package, a custom glass artwork of Kris Letang, donated by Jeff Martincic and Standard Bent Glass, and much more. 

In addition, hourly drawings for items such as a three-month membership to Bally Total Fitness, a $50 Best Buy gift card and Penguins attire, will be pulled. 

The word has spread through Facebook marketing and Twitter — a special shout-out goes to Elise O'Donnell for leading donations, and coordinating the auction and bake sale. 

"It is in support of a great cause, and it is representing a very loving, caring, kind individual who was taken from us too soon," said Jessica Bisceglia, childhood friend of the Benson family.