LeGrand Shares Advice with Devils Prospects | FEATURE

For the players attending the Devils development camp, the experience is more than just the on-ice and off-ice training, it's about growing as a person and a player. For Director of Player Development Meghan Duggan, bringing in guest speakers is a key part of the development camp experience.

"Different perspectives on whether it's life, whether it's different experiences, whether it's building a business," Duggan shared. "Bringing in people from diverse backgrounds to engage with our players, to show them what is Newark about and what the Devils are about, what we value here."

Wednesday afternoon, former Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand spoke with the prospects to share his story and advice as the players head into their final days of camp.

"They're all young so I wanted to give them perspective on going through the grind, being able to put your best foot forward," LeGrand explained. "Even through the moments when you do want to or things may not be going in the direction you want. Just to give your best effort each and every day. And come out there and be appreciative for this moment because so many people would love to be in their shoes right now."

In addition to appreciation for the moment, LeGrand preached taking advantage of their opportunity.

"I just hope they wake up each and every day with the mentality that I'm going to attack today," LeGrand said. "I'm going to believe in myself, (no matter) all the circumstances that may be going against me, I'm not going to let that affect me and go out there.' And when you get on that ice, try to impress some of these coaches.

"Hopefully I can instill some of that inspiration on them."

LeGrand has worked with the Devils extensively over the last year as his business, LeGrand Coffee House, was last summer's Buy Black recipient. Through the program LeGrand received guidance, resources, and publicity from the Devils brand. His coffee is available to buy at Prudential Center and his company's logo was on the Devils helmets throughout the 2022-23 season and playoffs.

"It's been incredible to see how many people come into our coffee shop now with Devils uniforms on," LeGrand shared about his business booming. "Being able to see the brand recognition throughout the entire country when (the team) is traveling, into now Canada as well.

"Having that logo on the helmet was huge for us," LeGrand continued. "Especially during the playoffs. (I got) so many text messages and people reaching out to me and just knowing that our business has really connected with the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Financial, it's really been a blessing."