Sabres in the community | February 2025

The Buffalo Sabres' community initiatives in February included a special visit to the locker room, a skate organized by Rasmus Dahlin and Alex Tuch, and a fun evening with Jiri Kulich, Zach Benson, and the Best Buddies Program.

Here's a recap of the ways Sabres players got involved this past month.

GREG MANZI VISIT

Following the Sabres’ win over the New York Rangers on Feb. 22, forward Alex Tuch invited Greg Manzi, a 16U Jr. Sabres player who was seriously injured earlier this season, into the locker room. Tuch, who coached Manzi growing up, was joined by Sabres players and staff members in showing their support. The team took photos with Manzi and included him in their celebration, sharing a special moment as he continues his journey toward recovery.

PWHL TAKEOVER TOUR

Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton and forward Beck Malenstyn attended the PWHL Takeover Tour game at KeyBank Center on Feb. 23, showing their support for women’s hockey. The game featured the New York Sirens and Boston Fleet in a showcase of the PWHL’s growth. Clifton and Malenstyn took in the action with their families. Additionally, various Sabres players donned PWHL gear and took to social media to show their support.

BEST BUDDIES

Sabres forwards Zach Benson and Jiri Kulich participated in the Best Buddies program at Buffalo Battleground on Feb. 24. The event featured various activities, including laser tag and arcade games, allowing the players to connect with participants in a fun and engaging setting. Best Buddies is a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendships, employment and leadership development for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

CAPTAINS' CREW SKATE

Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin and forward Alex Tuch participated in the Buffalo Sabres Learn to Play Captains’ Crew Skate on Feb. 24, joining young players on the ice for a special session. Before skating, Dahlin and Tuch signed autographs for all participants. The Captains’ Crew program, launched in partnership with the AT9 Foundation (Tuch), The Rasmus Dahlin Foundation and the Buffalo Sabres Learn to Play Program, helps introduce children to hockey while supporting community initiatives.

BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION

The Sabres hosted a Black History Celebration on Feb. 25 during their game against Anaheim. The event highlighted the achievements and contributions of the local Black community, featuring artists and Black-owned businesses, special concession offerings and educational exhibits. A jersey redesign honoring the “Buffalo 10” supported youth programs, while live performances by the Dale Toliver Quartet and in-game music by the funk-soul-pop fusion band Diyené showcased Buffalo’s rich cultural heritage.