Professional sports in Boston extend far beyond the arena, emphasizing deep community engagement and unity. The Boston Bruins exemplify this commitment through initiatives like the Boston Bruins Foundation and Develpment Camp, which actively contributes to the mission of Special Olympics Massachusetts.

On July 2, 2024, Special Olympics MA athletes joined Boston Bruins prospects at The TRACK at New Balance for a spirited afternoon of Floorball—a new sport for the Special Olympics community. The event was part of the Boston Bruins’ Community Development Day, an annual event for the organization, where the Bruins split prospects into three groups across different community organizations in Boston. Thanks to the Bruins commitment to spreading inclusion on and off of the ice, Special Olympics Massachusetts was one of those community organizations chosen.

Mike Dargin, Director of Youth Hockey with the Boston Bruins, emphasized the significance of events like these.

 “I think it’s so important and it shows our potential Boston Bruins players how to give back to the community and how to connect with young kids through a sport that they know and love and that they can offer professional tips to these kids that you see out here,” he said.  

Whether it is getting players involved, providing necessary equipment, or hosting clinics like this one, the Boston Bruins Foundation always lends a hand when it comes to spreading inclusion through sports.

"The Bruins have been incredible supporters of everything we’ve done over the last few years,” said Stephen Basden, Director of City Initiatives at Special Olympics MA. He continued, “At the end of the day, it’s really nice to see the Bruins investing in growing the game beyond the ice and with other populations."

The afternoon was inspiring, filled with floorball drills, skills sessions, and ending in a friendly, Unified game played by Bruins prospects and Special Olympics athletes. Bob Sweeney, President of the Boston Bruins Foundation, made a special appearance and each athlete left with a newly designed t-shirt and autographed roster of the team.

Reflecting on the day, Bruins prospect Frédéric Brunet shared that, “It means everything... We’re so lucky to be in the positions we are right now and just to have a chance to give back to the community and come help these little kids and make their days means everything to me.”

Special Olympics Massachusetts works to promote inclusion in and around cities like Boston. This event not only highlighted remarkable athletic talent but also showed the Bruins’ dedication to nurturing inclusivity and community through sports, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

“Just don’t let anything stop you. If you have an obstacle in your way, just go through it. Doesn’t matter if you have a disability or if you have something in your way, just persevere and go through it,” said Burnet.

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