The Charity Series of Poker (CSOP) is back in Las Vegas with a special event benefiting Vegas Golden Chariots – Special Hockey. VGCSH is Nevada’s only competitive hockey program for neurodivergent youth.
Hearts In The Crease is a one-of-a-kind tournament that blends high-energy poker with meaningful impact, raising critical funds to support ice time, equipment, and travel costs for children who otherwise would never get the opportunity.
Playing For More Than The Pot
“I know some people may think a kids’ hockey team isn’t as impactful as many of the amazing non-profits we work with, but I assure you, it may be more so,” said Charity Series of Poker President and Founder Matt Stout.
“These neurodivergent children need an outlet and a place to belong that they have a hard time finding around neurotypicals. We want to help pay for ice time, gear, and travel to tournaments so they can play against other special hockey teams since they’re the only one in Nevada. Ice hockey was one of the only things that helped steer me off a dark path as a kid, and being able to coach my autistic son on this team has been a dream come true for me.”
Hearts In The Crease Event Details
The charity tournament takes place at Via Brasil Steakhouse in Las Vegas on Feb. 7. Matt Stout will be giving a free poker lesson at 5 p.m. for new players.
Every player is then invited to enjoy the rodizio dinner and open bar at 5:30.
The tournament will begin at 7 p.m., with rebuys and add-ons available in the early levels.
Poker, Dinner, and Open Bar – $200
Dinner and Open Bar – $150
Rebuys and Add-Ons – $100
Players will be competing for three Margaritaville Cruise Packages, as well as more than $10,000 in donated prizes. There will also be a silent auction for signed memorabilia, gift cards, and experiences.
Among those already confirmed include adult actresses Katie Morgan and Rebel Lynn, as well as NOFX bassist and Punk Rock Museum founder ‘Fat’ Mike Burkett, and 2013 WSOP main event champion Ryan Riess.
How You Can Get Involved
Every buy-in and rebuy played helps build confidence, community, and opportunity for neurodivergent athletes—on the ice and beyond.
Players and supporters can register, donate, or bid directly through the official event page.
Can’t attend in person? No problem. The online auction lets anyone, anywhere, bid on exclusive items and experiences, with all proceeds supporting VGCSH.
