The Penguins expressed their support for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) during a game at Crypto.com Arena on Monday. This was the Kings’ first home game in 16 days after a postponement due to ongoing wildfires in southern California.
Players donned LAFD hats during warmups, wore LAFD shirts throughout the day, and displayed LAFD stickers on their helmets during the game. The Penguins’ staff, coaches, and management, including President of Hockey Operations and GM Kyle Dubas, also showed solidarity by wearing LAFD gear.
Kevin Hayes remarked, “I always say they don’t get enough credit, especially in times like right now over here.” He emphasized that while the fire department is receiving attention now, their work remains consistent. “I think every fire department around the world in this country deserves a lot of props,” he added.
Hayes honors first responders at every Penguins home game through his initiative called Hayes’ Heroes. This initiative aims to recognize the sacrifices made by first responders for the community. It began during his time with the New York Rangers after an emotional visit to The 9/11 Memorial and Museum inspired him to honor affected families.
After joining the Flyers in 2019 and signing a seven-year contract, Hayes continued his initiative with first responders. Upon being acquired by the Penguins, he started it anew at the beginning of the season in Pittsburgh. Hayes buys tickets for his guests and meets them post-game for photos and conversation. He often receives ‘victory coins,’ or patches from these encounters.
“I have an insane amount back home,” Hayes noted about these tokens. He shared that many of his family members and friends are police officers and firefighters in Boston, which fuels his passion for honoring them.
“I see them all the time in the summer,” Hayes said. “I think it’s just a small token to show how much I appreciate what they do.”
Hayes concluded by acknowledging that professional athletes receive significant recognition but believes that showing appreciation for first responders is crucial as well: “It takes a lot of guts to do what they do.”
