Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri hosted a free hockey clinic for nearly 50 children of military families at the Northwell Health Ice Center Outdoor Rink in East Meadow.
A Skating Session With Purpose
The clinic was organized by the Kyle Palmieri Foundation in partnership with the New York Islanders, aiming to introduce youngsters aged five to fifteen to the sport in a relaxed setting.
Palmieri, who is entering his seventh season on a $9.5 million contract, has been sidelined for 25 games after an ACL tear but remains focused on giving back. His sister serves in the Air National Guard, his brother‑in‑law is in the U.S. Army, and his niece is a member of the U.S. Navy, connections that fuel his dedication to military families.
Speaking at the event, Palmieri emphasized that the day was about ‘making a difference’ for the kids, saying the goal was simply to provide fun and inspiration on the ice.
Islanders mascots Sparky and Nyisles joined several coaches who ran drills, while families such as Gary Dowling’s attended with their nieces, who enjoyed the experience despite their younger siblings being too young to participate.
Morgan Price of TAPS highlighted Palmieri’s long‑standing support for military families, noting his previous collaborations with the team. The clinic not only offered a glimpse of hockey but also reinforced a community bond that extends beyond the rink.
As the youngsters skated and laughed, the event underscored how sport can serve as a bridge between service and civilian life, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.