The New Jersey Devils are about a month away from their first game of the season, but some players tried their hand at golf for a charity event hosted by a Devils legend.
Martin Brodeur hosted his inaugural MB30 Invitiational Golf Tournament at Plainfield Country Club. The Hockey Hall of Fame goalie spent over two decades with the Devils, winning three Stanley Cups with the franchise.
"It feels great to have the support of everybody. Last night, we had a dinner - a bunch of old players and great stories and this is what it's all about when you retire, you miss your teammates and miss the game obviously," said Brodeur.
For current players like Kyle Palmieri, it's a chance to raise money and catch up with guys he used to watch while growing up.
"Not only is his play on the ice the reason fans love him, but how well he connects with his fans and the people of New Jersey, and that's what makes him the fan favorite and it's a pleasure and an honor to be here," said Palmieri.
Proceeds raised will benefit the Devils Care Foundation, which creates opportunities for New Jersey's youth through the power of sports.
"It's what pro sports is all about. We're in the entertainment business and we're the only professional team in New Jersey, so I think it's really important for us to give back to the community and promote our game, but also promote the state of New Jersey," says Devils head coach John Hynes.
Hynes is entering his fifth year as Devils head coach. While he's excited to play 18 holes, he's also ready to get the season started.
"Now you hunker in with management and coaches to really get prepared for the season, so it's nice to be able to come out here for today, but you have half your mind on golf, but a lot of it's on getting ready for training camp," says Hynes.
That sentiment was echoed by Brodeur, who is also executive vice president of business development for the Devils. He says he's happy with what the organization put together in the offseason.
"They put the tools in place for us to have a more successful year than last year, so even though I'm not part of it, I'm excited about it because I'll be watching a lot of games," says Brodeur. "So it will be fun to root for the Devils again and hopefully we'll get into the playoffs."