New York Islanders defenceman Travis Hamonic and Philadelphia Flyers right-winger Wayne Simmonds are the two finalists for the 2016-17 NHL Foundation Player Award.
The award, given to an “NHL player who applies the core values of hockey – commitment, perseverance and teamwork – to enrich the lives of people in his community,” comes with a $25,000 donation to the charity of the winner’s choice.
Hamonic founded the D-Partner Program, allowing him to meet and bond with more than 200 children who, at a young age, have suffered the loss a parent. The St. Malo, Man., native was 10 when his father, Gerald, suffered a heart attack and died.
Hamonic, 26, has spent more than $50,000 hosting D-Partner Program children at Islanders games, providing VIP treatment as well as special meet-and-greets. He has also served as an event ambassador for the Children’s Wish Foundation and spearheaded various Islanders community events, including the team’s school and hospital visits.
Simmonds has hosted Wayne’s Road Hockey Warriors in his hometown of Scarborough, Ont., each summer since 2012. Simmonds has raised more than $100,000 through this annual event that features several other NHL players and provides opportunities for youth to learn and play hockey.
The 28-year-old also has purchased private suites at Flyers games for military personnel, hosted a Make-A-Wish experience and actively supported the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation.
NHL clubs submit nominations for the NHL Foundation Player Award, which was first issued in 1998. The two finalists selected by a judging panel.
The award winner will be announced June 20 in Las Vegas.
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