Akwesasne Warriors visit children at ABGC

The Akwesasne Warriors Professional Hockey team paid a visit to the Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club last Thursday. Five of the Warriors players spoke to the youth who attend the programs at the Club, sending the message that as long as you work for it, you can achieve your goals. Kyle Legace (#17), told the youth, “...hockey is a good way to build character – you need both determination and to make good decisions.”

The Akwesasne Warriors gave a $100 donation, which was accepted by Ryan Thomas and Ian Mitchell on behalf of the Club. They also gave tickets to next weekend’s home game against New York, with the promise of providing reserved seating for all Club members in attendance of the game. Ryan Thomas said, “If my game isn’t that night, I’ll be there.”

“We hope to do more activities with other sports teams in the area”, said Ron LaFrance, a worker at the Club. “The kids were excited and respectful of our guests; they like having people come in from the community, especially athletes.”

After the players’ presentation, the youth challenged the Warriors to a hockey game outside. “I thought it was awesome to see the players playing with the kids,” said Steevi King, another worker at the Club.

“This is a great center, very well organized with a balance between fun and doing school work. It’s clear that the kids enjoy being here because it is a fun place,” stated Legace.

“It felt good hearing about how to complete your goals, and that it will take a lot of discipline and dedication,” stated Ronnie Jacobs, another Club attendee. When asked if he was attending the Akwesasne Warriors game, Ronnie said, “Oh yes, definitely!”