“Turning on CNN and other news channels and watching the devastation of Ukraine and invasion by Russia was very disturbing. Upon signing a player of Ukranian descent and hearing the family’s stories of family and friends they still have over in Ukraine made it even more difficult.” Said Renegades Head Coach Cliff Graziano
“When reading that the junior hockey news posted that they needed help in getting equipment to Ukranian hockey players that have fled the Ukraine to other countries and were without their gear, we felt as an organization, that we could help in this area. The NJ Renegades have gathered as much as gear as we could in a short amount of time and are currently shipping it out.”
“When Cliff reached out and offered that his organization may be able to help, it was a welcome surprise.” Said TJHN Publisher Joseph Kolodziej “When teams are already in the swing of their season, I really didn’t expect much. Yet, the generosity of the hockey community in New Jersy has always been there to support people in need. This is simply another example.”
Coach Graziano continued “We are glad to help in any way we can. Having a player on our Jr team of Ukranian descent and others with ties to the Ukraine we felt we could help in this area. We hope this brings just a little joy to those players. They have so much to be worried about, but if their love of hockey puts a little smile on their face; we only hope this lifts their spirits even if it’s in a small way of playing the game they love.”
TJHN would like to thank the Renegades organization, Coach Graziano and all the people who were involved in making this donation possible.
If you would like to get involved, its not too late. The equipment will be shipping out on October 17, and any help is welcome. For more information please contact me directly.
Joseph Kolodziej – Publisher
