Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Penguins recently hosted their annual Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Dads Trip, which took place over two games before the break. The games were held on Friday in New York City and Saturday in Philadelphia.

Kyle Dubas, Penguins President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, discussed the trip's planning on the GM Show. He mentioned that Jason Seidling, director of team operations, manages the event efficiently. "He handles it perfectly," Dubas said. The planning involves input from Sidney Crosby and other leaders to select a suitable trip date.

Head Coach Mike Sullivan expressed gratitude for the resources provided by ownership to organize this event annually. He emphasized its importance as a way for players to spend quality time with important people in their lives and allow guests to experience NHL life.

The trip began on Thursday with some dads attending practice at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex before flying to New York City with the team. Sullivan welcomed them warmly, acknowledging their support. "None of us get here alone," he said.

After arriving in New York, participants enjoyed dinner at Quality Italian, where rookie goaltender Joel Blomqvist toasted the dads. His father Anders noted his son's growing confidence since moving to North America.

On Friday, attendees visited Madison Square Garden for an optional game-day skate and later toured the Empire State Building. That evening, they watched as the Penguins secured a 3-2 victory over the Rangers. P.O Joseph highlighted how special it was having their fathers present during such an exciting game.

Following the game, Sullivan praised both players and their families: "They're great kids... They compete hard." Afterward, everyone traveled by train to Philadelphia.

Saturday's schedule included a video meeting followed by lunch at Geno’s for Philly cheesesteaks. The group then visited famous sites like Rocky steps before heading to Wells Fargo Center for another game against Flyers – despite losing this match-up; spirits remained high among dads who enjoyed witnessing Erik Karlsson score early on behalf of Pittsburgh team efforts overall remained strong throughout weekend activities according Coach Sullivan himself: "Whenever dads are around there's good energy."

Overall consensus seems clear—annual tradition continues providing memorable experiences all involved while strengthening bonds between family members supporting athletes careers behind scenes long-term success shared collectively within organization itself!