The Buffalo Sabres today announced the team will host Hockey is for Everyone™ Night on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at KeyBank Center when the Sabres host the Anaheim Ducks at 7 p.m. February is the NHL's annual Hockey is for Everyone™ month, which promotes the inclusion of players, coaches and fans of every race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and those with disabilities.
Sabres' "Hockey Is For Everyone" Night set for Feb. 6
"The Sabres are proud to partner with the NHL during Hockey is for Everyone™ month again this season," Sabres Vice President of Community Relations Rich Jureller said. "This game and this month help to highlight our own organizational initiatives and we're thrilled to support and promote programs throughout Western New York that embody the Hockey is for Everyone™ values."
There will be several activities taking place throughout the night, including the You Can Play Project, which advocates for the inclusion, acceptance and respect of LGBTQ athletes in sports. Players will use Pride Tape on their sticks during pregame warm-ups in support of the evening. There will also be Sabres pride T-shirts and hats on sale in the Sabres Store and the Pride Center of WNY and Gay and Lesbian Youth Services will have informational tables on the 100 level.
The team, as well as Sabres players Ryan O'Reilly and Zach Bogosian, will host groups that represent the Hockey is for EveryoneTM philosophy, including Hasek's Heroes, Buffalo Sabres Thunder Special Hockey Team, SABAH, Seneca Nation Cattaraugus Community Center, Buffalo Beauts, Buffalo Niagara Deaf Events, Gay and Lesbian Youth Services, Pride Center of WNY, Buffalo Sabres Warriors Stand Up and Sled Hockey Teams, and The Summit Center.
Representatives from select groups will be on the ice for a special pregame ceremony and Hasek's Heroes will participate in the first intermission shootout. Additionally, Amy Heider Julius will perform the National Anthem in American Sign Language.
Sabres alumni, and current Buffalo Beauts coaches, Ric Seiling and Craig Muni will be signing autographs on the 100 level along with Beauts players Corinne Buie, Kaylyn Schroka and Sarah Shureb from 6 to 7 p.m.
KeyBank Center will also be unveiling sensory kits at guest service stations that will be available for the rest of the season. Life is Washable Inc. provided the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits that are meant to support individuals of all ages with sensory needs (i.e. Autism, Neurological Impairment, PTSD, Dementia, etc.) as they enjoy a game.
As part of the Hockey is for Everyone™ initiative, the Buffalo Sabres Foundation has hosted clinics, practices and open skates with the Seneca Nation Cattaraugus Community Center, Buffalo Sabres Thunder Special Hockey Team and SABAH, with current and past Sabres players in attendance.
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Buffalo Sabres Foundation Mission Statement
To identify and support local organizations which share our core objectives: serving children and military personnel, caring for the sick, assisting physically and mentally challenged athletes, and supporting youth hockey initiatives. By utilizing financial resources and community influence, the Buffalo Sabres Foundation assists these organizations and their beneficiaries in realizing their highest potential and succeeding in their endeavors.
About the You Can Play Project
You Can Play works to ensure safety and inclusion for all who participate in sports, including LGBTQ athletes, coaches and fans. You Can Play believes sports teams should focus on the athlete's skills, work ethic, and competitive spirit, not their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. More information about You Can Play can be found at youcanplayproject.org.
About Hockey is for Everyone™
At the NHL, we have a saying: Hockey is for everyone. We support any teammate, coach or fan who brings heart, energy and passion to the rink. We work to provide the sport in a positive and inclusive environment for players, their families and fans of every race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, socio-economic status and those with disabilities. Hockey is for Everyone™ uses the game of hockey - and the League's global influence - to drive positive social change and foster more inclusive communities.
The NHL has designated February as Hockey is for Everyone™ month to reaffirm that the official policy of the sport is one of inclusion on the ice, in our locker rooms and in the stands. Around the League and in our communities, we celebrate hockey's diversity and our unwavering commitment to respect for all.
