Comets in the Community: Christmas at St. Luke’s

December 26, 2013 - American Hockey League (AHL) Utica Comets The Utica Comets players were more than eager to make time for some of their biggest fans as they were back at Faxton St. Luke's Healthcare last Thursday. In the midst of a two game set with the visiting Abbotsford Heat, five Comet players delivered gifts to the brave children of both the pediatric department at St. Luke's and the Children's Miracle Network.

Comets players Alex Biega, Brandon DeFazio, Kellan Lain, David Marshall and Yann Sauve each returned to St. Luke's, after they had previously visited a few weeks before to meet with the home's senior citizens. The Comets made the day for a new generation of patients, these consisting of ill youth who are fighting for their lives.

As someone whose job description includes fighting, Yann Sauve was eager as always to be on hand to support the children. Sauve's community involvement dates back to his time as a member of the Chicago Wolves, where he played from 2011-2013.

"We feel lucky to have the life we have right now," Sauve said in an interview with WKTV. "Some of these kids unfortunately that have illnesses, it's just part of giving back to them."

The players took the role of Santa Claus for the children in need, as they came stocked with Comets gear in hand, including hockey sticks and cards for the children. Many Comets, including defenseman Alex Biega, realize the importance of giving back to these children.

"To make a difference in kids' lives, whether it's giving an autograph or just saying hi, and making a difference for that child I think is critical," Biega said to WKTV, in his third visit to the hospital. "It means a lot to us and the organization."

The Comets opened up the session to the community and the players took pictures and signed autographs for anyone who made a donation to the Children's Miracle Network.

"It's a pretty special opportunity for us," Comets winger Brandon DeFazio said. "I think we're all feeling pretty excited to have met those kids, they always bring a little bit of extra joy to your life because they're so positive and excited to see you. For the most part we're even more excited to meet them and it was a great opportunity to do that today."

DeFazio was recognized for his work within the community a season ago by the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, which he has only expanded upon since he arrived in Utica. The winger was awarded the IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award for his services and was named the team's nominee for the Yanick Dupre Award, given annually to the AHL player who best demonstrates involvement in his community.

"Sometimes you think you're having a bad day, but then you come here and realize that it could always be worse," DeFazio said. They're always positive, always excited and to see that on them always weighs pretty heavily on us too."