The King Clancy Memorial Trophy presenters held some extra meaning at the 2023 NHL Awards on Monday at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
Former Nashville Predators general manager David Poile introduced Ben Gatlin -- a teacher and administrator at The Covenant School in Nashville -- as well as Sgt. Jeff Mathes and Det. Michael Collazo, two law enforcement officers on the scene during the tragic school shooting in March, to present the award.
The King Clancy Memorial Trophy is given "to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community."
Poile introduced Gatlin first, who thanked the Nashville Predators for their support during the difficult time for the Nashville community.
"For myself, the students and staff of The Covenant School, the families that are here with us tonight and the entire community, I wish to thank you David [Poile] and the Nashville Predators for your compassion and leadership," Gatlin said.
The Nashville Predators Foundation is running a fundraiser to continue to contribute to the community.
"We're proud to support The Covenant School's faculty, students and families as they continue to recover and heal," Poile said. "All funds collected will help provide support for our community."
