KEARNEY, Neb. – The Tri-City Storm’s ‘Pack It In Purple’ jersey auction raised $18,000 for the United Way of the Kearney area through the sale of 25 game-worn sweaters at the Viaero Event Center on Saturday night.

Saturday’s game was attended by 3,385 fans as the Storm defeated the Lincoln Stars, 3-1.

The United Way has partnered with Tri-City and hosted the jersey auction for all 15 seasons of Storm hockey. This year’s event pushed the all-time total money raised to more than $218,000.

Dan Labosky’s No. 24 jersey topped the list, going for $2,500, while Chris Wilkie’s sweater was second at $1,500.

The mission of United Way in the Tri-Cities is to build a stronger community by uniting people who care with people who need. The organization serves six counties including Buffalo, Kearny, Franklin, Harlan, Phelps and Custer.

Through the services of its partner agencies, the United Way helps people faced with financial crisis, domestic abuse and disasters. It also helps area families find support for helping children and youth succeed, supporting the aging population and helping people with special needs.

The Storm host Western Conference leading Sioux City in Kearney for a two-game series this weekend. Friday’s contest begins at 7:30 p.m., whileSaturday’s gets underway at 7:05.

For more information and to purchase tickets, contact the Viaero Event Center Box Office at 308.338.8011 or visit www.stormhockey.com.