Councilman Joins Ex-Rangers On The Ice

At a charity hockey to benefit youth hockey are, from left, back row: rink maintenance worker Jerry Reikert; rink manager Matt Naples; Rangers Brian Mullen and Colton Orr; Huntington Councilman Ed Smyth; skating instructor James Chang; assistant rink manager Kevin Young and Mike Graziano.

By Charlie Crudup
info@longislandergroup.com

Ed Smyth considers himself a decent hockey player. Though it’s been a few years since he has played with a team, the Huntington Councilman agreed to lace up his skates for a charity game.

Smyth found himself on the ice last Saturday for a New York Rangers Assist charity game to benefit youth hockey. Skating alongside Smyth and other parents of youth hockey players were a handful of former New York Rangers.

Darius Kasparaitis and Ron Duguay anchored Smyth’s Team Blue, and Brian Mullen and Colton Orr skated for Team White.

The former Rangers regularly “come out of retirement” to play fundraising games through the New York Rangers Assist.

Saturday’s event at the Dix Hills Ice Rink raised $60,000 for Long Island Rebels Hockey Association and the Dix Hills Ice Rink.

“It’s an honor and privilege to be able to do this after my career.” Orr said.

Kasparaitis opened the scoring and he and Orr kept the score close.

“They were pretty much able to score at will,” said Smyth of the pros.

Team Blue beat Team White, 13-11.

Smyth ended the game with his teeth intact and his wallet lighter, but it was for a good cause.

“It’s always better to get in and get your hands dirty rather than talk about it.”