"We're extremely proud to have the opportunity to play a role in the official launch of the VGK Alumni Association," said Engelland. "The transition from full-time NHL player to stepping away from the game can be challenging, and we're eager to focus our time on giving back to the great community of Las Vegas that we're all proud to call home."
"While the number of Golden Knights alumni is still small, this will be an organization that allows all NHL alumni in the Vegas area to make a difference," said Vegas Golden Knights owner and Alumni Association Trustee Bill Foley. "I applaud the efforts of Deryk and Shane and am proud to see a group like this form in just our fifth season in the league."
The VGK Alumni Association launched this evening at its inaugural event, a reception hosted at Legacy Club at Circa Resort & Casino Las Vegas.
Selected by the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2017 NHL Expansion Draft, Engelland was the first member of Vegas' inaugural 2017-18 team to officially retire as a Golden Knight. Engelland played in 671 career NHL games - 202 with the Golden Knights - and notched 30 goals, 97 assists and 579 penalty minutes. Engelland currently serves as the Special Assistant to the Owner for the Vegas Golden Knights.
Hnidy has called Golden Knights games as the team's Color Commentator on AT&T SportsNet since the inaugural 2017-18 season. A Neepawa, Manitoba native, Hnidy played in 550 NHL games after being drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. Hnidy played for the Ottawa Senators, Atlanta Thrashers, Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, Anaheim Ducks and Boston Bruins during his career and won the Stanley Cup in 2011 with Boston.
As founders of the organization, Engelland and Hnidy have identified three main areas to dedicate their efforts: first responders, under-served youth, and assistance for the undernourished community. Those with a common passion and interest in the VGK Alumni Association can learn more by visiting
VGKAlumni.givesmart.com
.
ABOUT THE VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS
The Vegas Golden Knights are a National Hockey League franchise owned and operated by Black Knight Sports and Entertainment LLC. The Vegas Golden Knights were established by founding partners William Foley and his family and the Maloof family. For the latest news and information on the Golden Knights visit
vegasgoldenknights.com
. Fans can follow the team on
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