A Community on Ice
Former NHL forward Kyle Palmieri swapped the rink for a street‑side rink in Long Island, where he served as a guest coach for a free street hockey clinic aimed at the children of military service members.
The event, staged at the Northwell Health Ice Center, combined on‑ice drills with Q&A sessions, giving the youngsters a hands‑on introduction to the sport while allowing them to snap photos and receive a signed hockey stick as a keepsake.
A Clinic with Purpose
Organized in partnership with the New York Islanders, the clinic was more than a skills session; it was a chance for families from Bellmore, Greenport and surrounding communities to gather, share stories, and build connections that extend beyond the game.
Palmieri, who founded the Kyle Palmieri Foundation in 2016 under the moniker ‘Squad 21,’ has made it his mission to give back to the Long Island community through a variety of charitable initiatives, from summer barbecues in Greenport to broader outreach programs.
Looking Ahead
Participants left the clinic with more than just a piece of memorabilia; they walked away with new friendships, a deeper appreciation for the sport, and a sense of belonging that reflects the foundation’s broader vision of support for military families.