Former New York Rangers player Phil Esposito paid a visit to some New Rochelle Youth Hockey members last month.
New Rochelle hockey mom Alysa Vasapolli submitted the following press release and these photos of the practice.
The New Rochelle Youth Hockey program were the lucky recipients of a visit by hockey Hall-of-Famer, Phil Esposito, Sunday, April 25th, 2010 at the Rye Playland Ice Casino’s Studio Rink. This once-in-a-lifetime experience was donated to the program by one of the volunteer coaches, whose place of employment won the event in a charity auction.
From the moment Mr. Esposito entered the building, he was all smiles. It is no surprise why this man has had such a successful career on and off the ice. He has charisma; is passionate about the sport of hockey, the players, and most importantly, the next generation of players: our children.
Mr. Esposito greeted the families with hand shakes, stories, and autographs. Then he suited up in a New York Rangers jersey, and spent the next hour and half working with the kids on the ice….assisting in drills….working one on one…offering expert advice to the program’s participants, who range in age from 4 to 10. Even some of the New Rochelle high school hockey players, who help out with the youth program on a regular basis, were lucky enough to meet the legend and be out on the ice with him. And man, the guy
can still shoot!Mr. Esposito was nice enough to sign memorabilia that families brought with them, as well as a few hockey sticks that will be auctioned off to help support the New Rochelle Youth Hockey program for the 2010-2011 season.
“Espo” as he is commonly known, originally from Canada, played for a number of teams in the NHL. He is best known for his play with the Chicago Black Hawks and Boston Bruins; ending his playing career with the New York Rangers from 1975-81. He coached until 1989. He commentates and continues to be in and around the sport.
Phil Esposito’s career numbers are crazy, frankly. It is said that he played 1282 games, scored 717 goals, and had 873 assists.
New Rochelle Youth Hockey had a rare treat this past weekend, and it is surely not to be forgotten.
Thanks, Espo!For more info on New Rochelle Youth Hockey program go to: www.nryh.org
Those interested in registering for the upcoming 2010-2011 youth hockey program, which includes a Learn To Skate program click here: http://nryh.org/hindex.html
