Whether his team finds victory or defeat in the playoff former Ottawa Senator Rob Zamuner will be a winner with his playoff beard.

Zamuner launched the second edition of the National Hockey League Players Association Beard-a-thon Tuesday just in time for the playoffs.

The 2012 NHLPA Beard-a-thon raises money for the Heart and Stroke Foundation as players and fans grow beards whether thick or patchy.

Zamuner’s father suffered a heart attack seven years ago and the former Senator hopes more funds can result in better research for heart disease and strokes.

“The beard is a tradition with hockey playoffs,” said Zamuner, who admits his beard comes out more patchy than full.

Heart attack survivor and hockey player Michael Bibby got a head start to grow his beard and hopes to raise $25,000 personally.

Organizers are hoping more people will participate this year in order to top last year’s fundraising total of $200,000.

Fans can sign up at beardathon.ca and supporters can supporters can pledge their support for their favourite beard-grower.