Firebirds Host Henderson Silver Knights for Cancer Awareness Night

Team honors local season ticket holder Rich Nolan, who is undergoing treatment for stage four pancreatic cancer.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Coachella Valley Firebirds are hosting the Henderson Silver Knights tonight at Acrisure Arena, but the game carries special meaning off the ice as the team honors a local season ticket holder battling cancer. Earlier this week, Firebirds players visited the Lucy Curci Cancer Center and spent time with patient Rich Nolan, who is currently undergoing treatment for stage four pancreatic cancer. The team surprised Nolan with a signed stick and will recognize him during 'Hockey Fights Cancer' Night when the Firebirds take on the Bakersfield Condors.

Why it matters

The Firebirds' visit to the cancer center and recognition of Nolan highlights the team's commitment to supporting the local community, especially those facing serious health challenges. As a new professional sports franchise, the Firebirds have quickly become a source of pride and unity for the Coachella Valley.

The details

Firebirds players toured the Lucy Curci Cancer Center on Eisenhower Health's campus and spent time with patients, including season ticket holder Rich Nolan. Nolan, who is undergoing treatment for stage four pancreatic cancer, recently completed his eighth round of chemotherapy. The team surprised Nolan with a signed stick and will honor him during a special 'Hockey Fights Cancer' night when the Firebirds host the Bakersfield Condors.

  • The Firebirds players visited the cancer center earlier this week.
  • Nolan recently completed his eighth round of chemotherapy.
  • The Firebirds will honor Nolan during 'Hockey Fights Cancer' Night on Saturday.

The players

Rich Nolan

A Coachella Valley Firebirds season ticket holder who is currently undergoing treatment for stage four pancreatic cancer.

Coachella Valley Firebirds

A professional ice hockey team that plays in the American Hockey League and is the primary affiliate of the Seattle Kraken.

Henderson Silver Knights

A professional ice hockey team that plays in the American Hockey League and is the primary affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing professional hockey to the Coachella Valley has given fans something to rally around and look forward to.”

— Rich Nolan, Firebirds season ticket holder (nbcpalmsprings.com)

What’s next

The Firebirds will host 'Hockey Fights Cancer' Night on Saturday when they take on the Bakersfield Condors, where they will further honor Rich Nolan and raise awareness for cancer research and support.

The takeaway

The Firebirds' visit to the cancer center and recognition of a loyal fan battling cancer demonstrates the team's commitment to supporting the local community and using their platform to make a positive impact. As a new franchise, the Firebirds have quickly become a source of pride and unity for the Coachella Valley.