University of Denver's Jr. Pioneer Youth Hockey Players received a special visit from Paul Stastny of the NHL/Colorado Avalanche

Denver, Colorado - The Jr. Pioneers players were enjoying the last few days of winter break with a practice in early January, when a special surprise visitor showed up. Colorado Avalanche's Paul Stastny stopped by Magness Arena at DU, Friday evening on the 4th, to skate with the players & coaches of the Squirt and PeeWee teams.

Stastny, who himself, played at Magness Arena with the DU Pioneers from 2004-2006 had won the award for WCHA Rookie of the Year and was part of the NCAA Championship All-Tournament Team. Later he was drafted in 2005 by the Colorado Avalanche in the second round, 44 th overall. He signed with the Avalanche in July of 2006 and began his professional career in the 2006-2007 NHL Season.

Stastny spent his time with the Jr. Pioneers going through practice drills, and then signed jerseys, photo cards, & hockey sticks for the players. All of the Jr. Pioneers present, ranging in age from 9 to 11, had a great time hitting the puck with Paul and learning a few new moves on the ice! Youth Hockey Manager, Graham Johnson said, "It's just amazing to see professional hockey players taking time out of their busy lives to give back to the youth hockey community and the Jr. Pioneer hockey program. We are fortunate to have Varsity hockey players on the ice with our Jr. Pioneers several times a month, having some one like "Stas" is just the icing on the cake."

The Jr. Pioneer youth hockey program, part of the C.C.Y.H.L. League, is currently looking ahead to the summer hockey camps to be held at DU, and the 2008/2009 youth hockey season. There are camps and teams for children ages 5 though 16. For additional information about the Jr. Pioneers Youth Hockey Program, please see their website at: www.recreation.du.edu or call Graham Johnson, Youth Hockey Manager, at (303) 871-3388.