New York Rangers Alumni Classic: A Celebration of Hockey Legends
The New York Rangers Alumni Classic is a special event that brings together beloved former players for a friendly competition and a worthy cause. This event provides a unique opportunity for fans to see some of their favorite Rangers back on the ice while supporting important charitable initiatives.
A Classic Rivalry Renewed
The Rangers Alumni Classic often features matchups against alumni teams from other NHL franchises, reigniting classic rivalries. For instance, the Rangers alumni once crossed sticks with the Boston Bruins alumni for the first ever New York Rangers Alumni Classic. A few former Rangers even dressed for the Bruins in that game, including Rick Middleton, Dan LaCouture, and Mike Mottau. The Bruins' headliner was Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque. Thankfully, the Rangers had plenty of headliners of their own, with Brian Leetch, Adam Graves, Mike Richter, Glenn Anderson, Brad Richards, and Team USA star winger Amanda Kessel topping the list.
Supporting Youth Hockey and Mental Health
The Alumni Classic serves as a fundraising event for various charitable causes. The goal of the exhibition is to raise money for the Rangers Assist program, which is dedicated to developing youth hockey in the Tri-State.
The New York Rangers and New York Islanders alumni also team up with Northwell to raise money to create a healthier future for children and adolescents struggling with mental health issues. They are united in their belief that there is no health without mental health. Northwell’s mission-to improve the health of every community they serve-is only possible when we care for the physical health and mental, behavioral and emotional well-being of our youngest New Yorkers.
Nearly one in five children has a mental, emotional or behavioral disorder and 50% of lifetime cases of mental health begin by the age of 14. As the number of children and adolescents in need of mental health support continues to increase at alarming rates, Northwell Health is investing $350 million over the next five years and has launched a $150 million fundraising campaign to expand pediatric behavioral health services, including creating a new model of care and building a preeminent center of mental health excellence that will bridge the gap between physical and mental health services for children.
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Funds raised will support the Northwell Health Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that will help elevate behavioral health services for children and adolescents through capital investment, programs, research and endowment. Funds raised will help Northwell expand behavioral health care for children and adolescents.
Format of the Game
The Alumni Classic games are typically played with a modified format to accommodate the players. For example, one game was played with two 30-minute halves and one half-time.
Notable Alumni Participants
The Alumni Classic events always draw significant attention due to the participation of legendary players. Henrik Lundqvist is a frequent participant. Other notable alumni who have participated include Adam Graves, Dan Girardi, Ryan Callahan, Derek Stepan, and Derick Brassard.
In a game between the New York Islanders and New York Rangers alumni, Cal Clutterbuck opened the scoring in the game for the Islanders. After forcing a turnover, Clutterbuck skated towards the right side and let a shot go from the faceoff circle that beat Hall of Fame netminder Henrik Lundqvist. “I had time to shoot and I let it go,” Clutterbuck said after the goal. “The rivalry between the Rangers & Islanders is probably the most fierce rivalry in sports.” This marked Clutterbuck's first appearance in the annual alumni game. In 11 years with the franchise, Clutterbuck recorded 81 goals and 102 assists for 183 points in 718 games, earning his silver stick for 1,000 career NHL games last season.
Fan Engagement and Exclusive Opportunities
The Alumni Classic provides fans with opportunities to engage with their favorite players beyond just watching the game.
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Becoming a fundraiser provides a chance to win exclusive prizes from the NY Islanders and NY Rangers. Creating a profile allows individuals to support the Northwell Health Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that will help elevate behavioral health services for children and adolescents through capital investment, programs, research and endowment.
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