Gagne Appears at Virtua Health Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ with Members of ESYHF

A small group of ESYHF participants were selected to practice with Flyers Forward Simon Gagne on Tuesday September 16, 2008 at the Virtua Health Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ. The practice was Gagne's official return to the ice as he prepares to return for the 2008-2009 season. In addition to the practice, Gagne demonstrated how hard work and dedication is the key to success.

Gagne jumped right into the practice as if he were one of the ESYHF players, even though he towered over most of the kids at 6’0 and 195 lbs. Although he was practicing with the kids in his full equipment, once he started speaking to the players and giving them tips, they looked to him as a coach. Gagne explained that it's important to work on passing because passing is key to setting up plays. Gagne told the players to “take a look first” and “keep your sticks on the ice”. He also told the kids to set up in front of the net for better scoring opportunities.

ESYHF participants were selected for this special opportunity because they’ve been working hard both at school and on the ice. Gabriel Hall-Jackson, a defensemen with ESYHF, said “my favorite part of the day was going two on one with Simon.” Thomas Brown, a goaltender with ESYHF, said “I’m inspired to work even harder in school and on the ice in order to get more awesome opportunities like this.”

After practicing with ESYHF, Gagne spent time autographing photos for each player and took a handful of group photos with everyone.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008