Newark Students Score Big With Donated Hockey Rink (VIDEO)

NEWARK, NJ — It was a cool first day of school – literally – for students at Phillip’s Academy Charter School in Newark.

On Monday, students returning from summer vacation were stunned to find out that their school was the recipient of a brand-new outdoor hockey rink, courtesy of a charitable partnership between the New Jersey Devils, Prudential Center and United Airlines.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Devils center Travis Zajac, school officials and representatives from the three organizations were on hand Monday at 342 Central Avenue to cut the ribbon on the new rink. After 200 Phillip’s Academy Charter School students gathered in the gym to hear about the new play area, the eager youngsters got a chance to hit the rink and inspire some smiles.

The donation was part of the “Give 82” service program, which encourages Prudential Center and New Jersey Devils employees to commit 82 hours of service to make a difference throughout their Garden State communities.

“As everyone knows, outdoor space is scarce in Newark so we are truly thankful to the New Jersey Devils, Prudential Center, and United Airlines for the renovation to our outdoor play area,” said Miguel Brito, CEO of Philip’s Academy.

“The Devils and Prudential Center have been outstanding supporters of Philip’s Academy over the past 18 months and this recent act of generosity is icing on the cake,” Brito said.

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Photos/video courtesy of NJ Devils, Prudential Center