BACK IN THE PUBLIC EYE

The Austin Bruins are working their way back into public in order to contribute

By Rocky Hulne

The Austin Bruins draw hundreds of fans when they take to the ice in Riverside Arena on Friday and Saturday nights, but there is more to the team then what the players do on game nights.

The Bruins, who are in their 11th season, have always been active in the community. The most obvious way the team gives back is when it started Paint the Rink Pink, which inspired Austin to start Paint the Town Pink, but the team has also made an impact in many other ways.

Before the pandemic, Bruins players would stop by elementary schools and read to the students, but those events have been put on hold due to restrictions. The team has still found ways to stay involved through youth clinics at local churches and by volunteering at Ruby’s Food Pantry. The team’s biggest impact has come on the ice with the next generation of hockey players. The Bruins have held open skates with mites, squirts and pee wee players that include boys and girls.

Liam Whitehouse, a first year Bruin, said those skating sessions are a blast, especially when the players see those same kids outside their locker room on game nights.

“It’s fun. We were those kids once too. It’s fun to see their smiles when you’re out there with them. They love being on the ice with the older guys and we love being out there with them too,” Whitehouse said. “It’s cool seeing those kids on and off the ice.”

Austin head coach Steve Howard can relate to those youths as he was one of them as well. He knows the importance of sharing the game with younger players within the community.

After a year where COVID-19 forced the Bruins out of the public eye, the NAHL team is able to once again give back to the

community. Photos provided

“When I was young, I had a pro team in town and that’s all I wanted to do was to be one of those guys,” Howard said. “Hopefully that’s what the Bruins are here, and hopefully they can inspire some of those young kids to keep at it, do the right things and try to attain the junior level, and hopefully college and pro after.”

Although COVID-19 restrictions have made things tricky, Howard wants his team to have as many opportunities as possible to help in the community. Not only is it important to give back, but it also helps mold the Bruins players into quality young men.

“That’s part of hockey. Once you get to the junior levels and beyond, it’s all about doing our part in the community,” Howard said. “Some doors are still closed and we get it and we understand. Some doors are wide open and we like coming out. If anyone would like to talk to us about community involvement or if they have any ideas, they should definitely reach out to us.”

Whitehouse, who is from Mount Kisco, New York, has enjoyed his first season with the Bruins and he’s also had a good time getting to know various community members while getting out and about in town.

“It’s a good feeling to give back to the community,” Whitehouse said. “You’re not just part of a hockey team, you’re part of a town.” P Throughout their time in Austin, the Bruins have been fan favorites of the community’s children. Photo provided