Hasek's Heroes to host 1st Annual Willie O'Ree event

NEW YORK -- Hasek's Heroes will host the 1st Annual Hasek's Heroes Willie O'Ree Skills Showcase Weekend March 20-22 in Buffalo, NY.  Sponsored by the National Hockey League and the Buffalo Sabres and presented in conjunction with USA Hockey's Disabled Festival, this exclusive event will bring together 28 boys and girls ages 13-16 from 11 youth hockey organizations that are members of the NHL's Hockey is for Everyone initiative.

The participants will be provided with a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the NHL and an insightful guide into the hockey world.  They will enhance their skills through NCAA Division I presentations during the on-ice drills and skills showcase and also join an on-ice clinic conducted by NHL alumni.  At Albright Know Art Gallery, guest speakers will provide valuable information about safety, goal setting and academic achievement and advise on what it takes to get to the next level. 

The showcase is a cultural opportunity to meet NHL alumni, create new friendships, enjoy the attractions of Buffalo and attend the Buffalo Sabres vs. Philadelphia Flyers game on Mar. 20.  The weekend will culminate with a unique opportunity to play hockey on the ice at HSBC arena.   

Hockey is for Everyone Ambassador Willie O'Ree, Hockey is for Everyone Ambassador and Buffalo Sabres alumnus Tony McKegney will participate in the activities.  Dave Smith, NHL Director of Fitness and Medical, will conduct the showcase drills.  He will be joined by Canisius College Division I Head Coach David Smith, NHL alumni and Division I players.  Buffalo native Ken Martin, who is Vice President of Community and Diversity Programming for the NHL and spearheads its Hockey is for Everyone initiative, will attend the festivities.      
 
Founded by NHL legend Dominik Hasek, Hasek's Heroes provides a foundation of athletic development and educational support, enabling children from low- to moderate-income families to achieve their life goals.  It provides them the opportunity to learn basic skating and hockey skills and, for those with the aptitude and commitment, the opportunity to participate in the tiered hockey development program.  Hasek's Heroes works in partnership with the Buffalo Public School System to promote academic achievement as an integral component of athletics.  For more information visit: www.haseksheroes.org.