Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Illinois
Rep. Mike Quigley and several Blackhawks players on Tuesday held a
youth hockey clinic at the Center on Halsted, Chicago's LGBT
community center.
Chicago Blackhawks center Denis Savard,
defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson and center Brett McLean led
neighborhood kids in hockey drills, team-building exercises, and
scrimmages.
Blackhawks Charities also donated
hockey equipment for permanent use at the community center.
“Hockey is for everyone, and it's
important that we give kids of all backgrounds the opportunity to
play sports,” said Quigley.
Emanuel, who in June officiated
over the civil union of one of his top staffers, added: “I am
committed to building a healthier Chicago which focuses on providing
children more opportunities to be physically active.”
“Athletics can help young people
build confidence and leadership,” Center on Halsted CEO Modesto
'Tico' Valle said. “Unfortunately, too many LGBT youth are
prevented from participating fully in team sports because of bullying
or other obstacles. We're proud to work with Mayor Emanuel, Rep.
Quigley and the Chicago Blackhawks to provide the equipment, the
training and the safe environment necessary for LGBT youth to
participate.”