The Devils Youth Foundation raised an event record of $1.67 million at the annual Devils Sweep the Deck Gala, a 100% increase over the previous year’s total, which will benefit the youth in the community.

On January 23, 2024, the New Jersey Devils hosted their annual Devils Sweep the Deck Gala, benefitting the Devils Youth Foundation at Prudential Center.

The arena underwent a makeover as their home ice turned into a professional curling rink, and the arena floor transitioned into a casino lounge featuring blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps.

The Devils' own TJ, the DJ, and the Newark Arts High School Latin Band were the night's performers as team executives, coaches, players, and fans mingled in a casual environment. This year's theme was described as "Après Ski Chic."

"Galas are pretty similar across the board so we really thought about how do we do something unique and give people something to look forward to," Devils President Jake Reynolds said to Devils reporter Catherine Bogart. "Bringing curling and cards to life, give people a chance to get out on the ice, we've got an unbelievable auction here, interact with the players, have our players dealing blackjack and playing craps with you, bartending with you, the combination of bringing our fans together, our community together and players together is really meaningful." 

The Devils Youth Foundation's mission is to champion, advance, and support equitable and inclusive access to life-changing experiences for youth in New Jersey by leveraging the power of sports, entertainment, and music. Their four pillars are equitable access, safe spaces, food insecurity, and art experience. 

"Our two main focuses this year are getting kids active and moving, to combat obesity issues, things we've seen have particularly grown since Covid, also, around food and nutrition security issues," Executive Director of the Devils Youth Foundation Kate Whitman-Annis said to Bogart.

The gala received rave reviews from fans in attendance who appreciated the laid-back nature of the event and the ability to interact with their favorite players and alums in a unique way.

Early in the evening, near the card tables, Nathan Bastian and Timo Meier were tending the bar.

One Devils fan tested them to see which of the two forwards could make the better margarita, and the winner might surprise you.

"Okay, we had Nate and Timo partake in a margarita contest. Timo remembered the lime, but it was a little on the weaker side with the tequila," season ticket holder Emily LeBoeuf said. "Nate is the winner; his was a little bit stronger. He said, 'Is stronger a good thing?' and I said, 'Yeah, it is. It is all about the alcohol portion.'"

By evening's end, an event record of $1.67 million was raised, a 100% increase over the previous year’s total. Photos were taken, laughs were shared, and memories were made.

 As one fans said, it is an event worth saving up for as it allows us to interact with our favorite players in a unique way. 

For those interested in learning more and donating you can click here.