It all started early one recent morning at Toys R’ Us in Carle Place, LI. Just barely off the plane from a win the night before in Buffalo, and barely before the sun was up, Islanders players and their families did some serious power shopping…with some very special fans in mind.
They were men on a mission. The goal was simple: to make some very important Islanders fans, very happy! This win was in the bag, literally! But the play wasn’t over yet.
This Wednesday, fresh off a win against Tampa Bay and right after morning practice, the players suited up to complete the mission! And it was a major success, measured in smiles. In the ultimate power play, those handpicked toys made their way to children at 7 hospitals across the New York/Long Island area, as well as the Henry Viscardi School—hand delivered by The Islanders stars themselves.
You can probably imagine the reactions of those hundreds of kids who got a personal visit from their favorite Islanders, autographs, and of course, some great presents! Not to mention pictures with their star players.
And it wasn’t just one star player out on this important road game, it was the entire team: a true team effort.
Mark Streit, Josh Bailey, Rick DiPietro, Mark Eaton, Michael Grabner, Micheal Haley, Travis Hamonic, Milan Jurcina, Andrew MacDonald, Matt Martin, Al Montoya, Mike Mottau, Matt Moulson, Nino Niederreiter, Frans Nielsen, Kyle Okposo, Jay Pandolfo, PA Parenteau, Kevin Poulin, Marty Reasoner, Dylan Reese, BrianRolston, Steve Staios, John Tavares, Tim Wallace and David Ullstrom were all out in force.
“As great as it is to score a goal or win a game, not much compares to when you’re able to bring a smile to someone who is in a hospital,” Islanders captain Mark Streit said. “The Long Island community is always behind us and has been great to me, so anytime we can help out like this, it’s a no-brainer and an honor.”
If you’re an Islanders fan, you know this team has heart—a big one. Great job, guys! Keep the wins coming…on and off the ice!
For more of my Islander’s coverage and to watch my behind the scenes video click here.
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Photos Courtesy of The New York Islanders. The events were sponsored by EmblemHealth. Players visited children at the following facilities: Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park; Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow; Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola; Stony Brook University Hospital in Stony Brook; Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip; St. Mary’s Hospital for Children Bayside; North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset; and the Henry Viscardi School: The National Center for Disabilities in Albertson.
