Last September, the 25-year-old defenseman purchased a suite at Nationwide Arena and selected special groups to enjoy a memorable night of Blue Jackets hockey throughout the season. Werenski's generosity has been extended to kids battling life-threatening illnesses, military members and their families, first responders, young people from underserved communities as well as youth hockey players. When available, Werenski visits with the guests to give them an elevated experience.
Outside of the arena, Werenski also made special appearances throughout the community. The son of a first responder, Werenski brought Jet's Pizza to the Westerville Police Department in January ahead of First Responders Night as a 'thank you'.
In December, Werenski made a $50,000 donation to The Salvation Army of Central Ohio in support of their Christmas initiatives. The donation helped provide toys to local children and families in need with food for breakfast and traditional turkey dinners during the holiday season.
In recognition of Werenski's philanthropy, the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation will donate $5,000 to the charity, or charities, of Werenski's choice, in his name. Fans that want to support Werenski's efforts can visit BlueJackets.com/WerenskiGivesBack.
Werenski, a native of Gross Pointe, MI, has been one of the best defensemen in the National Hockey League since joining the club in 2016. In just six years, he has appeared in two All-Star Games and become the top-scoring defenseman in franchise history. On July 29, 2021, he signed a six-year contract extension through the 2027-28 season.
The team has recognized a player for outstanding community service since the 2002-03 season. Past winners are: 2002-03 - Tyler Wright; 2003-04 - Luke Richardson; 2005-06 - Manny Malhotra; 2006-07 - Jody Shelley; 2007-08 - Dan Fritsche; 2008-09 - Rick Nash; 2009-10 - R.J. Umberger; 2010-11 - Jared Boll; 2011-12 - Marc Methot; 2012-13 - Derek MacKenzie; 2013-14 - Derek MacKenzie; 2014-15 - Nick Foligno; 2015-16 - David Clarkson; 2016-17 - Nick Foligno; 2017-18 - Sergei Bobrovsky; 2018-19 - Nick Foligno; 2019-20 - Boone Jenner; 2020-21 - Cam Atkinson; 2021-22 - Jack Roslovic.
The Blue Jackets return to action Saturday when they visit the Montreal Canadiens. Game time at Centre Bell is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Live coverage on Bally Sports Ohio begins with the Blue Jackets Live pre-game show starting at 6:30 p.m. The game can also be heard on the Blue Jackets Radio Network, including Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan in Columbus, and online at BlueJackets.com.
Single-game tickets for all home games played at Nationwide Arena during the 2022-23 season are on sale now. Information on all ticketing options can be obtained by calling (614) 246-3350 or visiting BlueJackets.com/ticketplans.
