Hockey in New Jersey, Devils Teamed Up for Summer Camp | RELEASE

Last week, Hockey in New Jersey (HNJ), in partnership with the New Jersey Devils, hosted its annual youth ice hockey summer camp at the RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House.

The camp brought the thrill of the game to 50 HNJ participants, who were selected to take part in the experience in recognition of their commitment to hockey and their willingness to work hard in school and on the ice. HNJ, the second-largest youth diversity hockey program in the United States, is committed to providing hockey programming at no cost for inner-city children who may not be well represented in the sport due to gender, race, ethnicity, disability, or socioeconomic status.

"We are incredibly grateful for the strong partnership we have with the New Jersey Devils, and the generous contributions of RWJBarnabas Health, JAG-One Physical Therapy, and former New Jersey Devils players. Together, we were able to create an environment where a passion for the sport meets invaluable learning experiences," said Richard A. Giuditta, Jr., Chairman of the HNJ Board of Trustees.

From July 31 to August 4, the campers immersed themselves in a series of on-ice drills, off-ice training, and interactive workshops. Throughout the week they were treated to visits from an all-star lineup of guests, including the New Jersey Devils Mascot; 2018 U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist, Amanda Pelkey; two-time U.S. Paralympic Gold Medalist, Jack Wallace; and the NHL's Senior Director of Youth Hockey & Industry Growth Fund, Matt Herr. Campers also had the opportunity to tour the New Jersey Devils Official Locker Room and dress in their Old Game Day & NHL Visitors' locker rooms all week, and watch the Ice Queens documentary celebrating Black women in hockey, followed by a meet-and-greet with the film's director Damon Kwame Mason.

"We are thrilled to be a part of this initiative and leverage the platforms that sports and entertainment provides to creates access and opportunity . HNJ's summer camp is more than just an athletic endeavor; it's an investment in the future for these young athletes," said Jake Reynolds, President, New Jersey Devils & Prudential Center and HNJ Board Trustee.

Campers were coached by 1995 Stanley Cup Champion and former Devils Captain, Bruce Driver, New Jersey Devils alum and two-time Stanley Cup Champion, Grant Marshall, and New Jersey Devils alum and three-time Stanley Cup Champion Ken Daneyko to sharpen their hockey skills including stick handling, passing, and agility. They also enjoyed a variety of educational sessions, including career development with representatives of the American Dream Mall, strength and conditioning with New Jersey Devils coach Joe Lorincz, the importance of stretching with JAG-One Physical Therapy, and discussions about athlete health and nutrition with RWJBarnabas Health. The final day of camp culminated in a skills clinic with New Jersey Devils Skills Development Coordinator Ryan Murphy and scrimmages, allowing campers to showcase their newly acquired skills on the ice.

"Witnessing the enthusiasm of the HNJ participants as they honed their skills was truly remarkable. We're proud to play a role in creating opportunities for the next generation of hockey and bringing more diversity to the sport," said Kevin Fox, Director of Youth Hockey & Growth Initiatives for the Devils.

"This is always a great week for our kids, and it's the perfect transition into the new school year and hockey season," said Dennis Ruppe, HNJ co-founder and chief operating officer. "The Devils are always fantastic hosts and partners - we couldn't do it without them!"