While their star power is important to the program, there's another addition to Jack and Luke's involvement that can't be overlooked.
They are 20 and 22 years old.
In addition to being National Hockey League players, those in the community HNJ supports look up to the Hughes brothers as big brothers. And that may be the most impactful part of what they do to connect with kids.
“This is surprising because younger kids relate better to people they consider generationally within their range,” Veltre said. “And Jack and Luke connect with them. I mean, they're superstars and they're adults, but they still get down on the ice with the kids and ask the kids how their day was. And they empathize with kids because they know what they've been through. So did we, and our kids look to them as mentors and true masters to emulate in a positive way. I see it as.”
The influence is felt mutually. Jack and Luke are deeply grateful for what the game of hockey has given their lives and want to share that with others.
“This is about what I believe in,” said Jack, “It's easy to share my love for the game and being able to help. (…) I'm having fun, And I really enjoy the kids.'' “I haven't seen them for years now. Just seeing the kids and being on the ice with them…This has been a really good program for me and participating.'' It's worth doing because it's about what I believe in: Hockey is near and dear to me.''For me, it's a way to share my love for the game and be able to help. ”
A gala ceremony held on Thursday evening formally announced the ambassadorship and was held in front of a large audience. But while their humanitarian work is widely known, the Hughes brothers have made significant behind-the-scenes contributions away from the spotlight. It's something they value and it's just as important to them. These are real young people who strongly believe in giving back to those around them.
“He's just doing small things,” Luke added to his brother's thoughts. “You don't have to have everything on camera. That's what we're signing up for. Things like going to the rink and watching practice and bringing out your skates and pushing the puck. We can definitely do what we really want to do with the organization and just help kids in any way we can.”
“Our rink is in Newark, which has a different background from where me and Luke grew up, but it’s really special,” Jack said. “We're able to take them to games, and Ironbound Arena is 10 minutes from our practice rink. So even something as small as showing up once in a while on a Saturday, checking in and showing your face, it's okay. And I think over the years, with this partnership, we have some ideas, even something as simple as taking out teammates after practice. There are so many things that can bring a smile to your face.”
Beltre added that just having the Hughes brothers in their program allows them to take the work they've been doing over the past nearly 20 years to a whole new stratosphere. That's the power the Hughes name has developed not only in New Jersey but throughout the National Hockey League.
“This gives kids more access,” Guditta said. “This is a unique program where the equipment, the ice time, everything is free. and girls, and we want all boys and girls to participate.” “We want other cities to know this sport is for them. We're breaking down barriers, and thanks to Jack and Luke, this sport will skyrocket. ”
