On Sunday, the New York Islanders held an intro to hockey session on the outdoor rink at Northwell Ice Center. Former Islander Matt Moulson took part, helping to teach these beginners the basic skills of the sport.
On Sunday, the New York Islanders held an intro to hockey session on the outdoor rink at Northwell Ice Center. Former Islander Matt Moulson took part, helping to teach these beginners the basic skills of the sport.
EAST MEADOW, NY -- On Sunday, the New York Islanders held an intro to hockey session on the outdoor rink at Northwell Ice Center.
On hand for the session was former Islanders Matt Moulson, who spent five years on Long Island, scoring 118 goals with 105 assists in 304 games from 2009-2014.
"The Islanders hold a special place in my heart," Moulson told The Hockey News. "It's always great to get back and help them out with anything they got going on."
Thirty kids laced up the sneakers and picked up sticks as they learned how to shoot, stick handle, and, most importantly, pass to teammates with the help of Moulson and his coaching staff.
Giving back is something that's incredibly important to Moulson, especially on Long Island.
"I love working with the kids and helping in any way I can with something like this," Moulson told The Hockey News. "It's just a lot of fun to come help kids get better, grow the game, and obviously, the smiles on their faces is always something that makes you feel good."
Following his retirement from the NHL, Moulson became a scout for his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs. He's since turned his attention to being a full-time youth hockey coach.
"I'm coaching my son's team with my brother-in-law," Moulson said. "I actually got some good business plans of my own on the horizon, but for now, just coaching youth hockey."
Putting two-and-two together, Moulson's bother-in-law is New York Rangers netminder Jonathan Quick.
'Different brother-in-law," Moulson said, adding a laugh. "Quickie's son is our goalie. He's good. It's a full family affair."
Former Islanders may leave Long Island, but they always seem to make their way back.
Moulson is no different as he truly embraced what it meant to be an Islander and now is doing what he can to still make an impact on the next generation of Islanders fans.