The New York Islanders are proud to recognize local first responders for their outstanding service and commitment to the local community. The Community Hero supported by Northwell will receive four (4) tickets and a special in-game recognition. Help the New York Islanders honor a first responder this season. Nominate your Community Hero of the Game.
The Northwell Community Heroes of the Game for October 2025 are Kevin Bonino and Jake Geller.
Bonino and Geller saved thier friend Connor Dubeau's life over the summer when he suffered a near-death accident.
The three friends were jet skiing at Gilgo Beach when Dubeau hit his head on the ocean floor, rendering the 17-year-old temporarily paralyzed underwater. Bonino, who recently obtained his lifeguard certificate, sprung into action and made his first official save off-duty with the help of Geller. The two worked together to bring Dubeau to back safety.
Dubeau fractured his C4 disk and underwent neck surgery. Recovery was a difficult journey, but Bonino and Geller were by his side and made frequent hospital visits to support their friend. Dubeau was able to walk out of this hospital almost two and a half weeks later, thanks to the heroics of his medical staff and the quick actions of Bonino and Geller to rescue him.
Dubeau and Bonino are teammates and play for the PAL Junior Islanders U18 hockey team.
Geller, a senior at Smithtown West, and Bonino, a senior at Chaminade High School, were honored at Thursday's Islanders game against the Detroit Red Wings.
