I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with two titans of New Jersey hockey—Jake Reynolds, President of the New Jersey Devils, and Ken Daneyko, affectionately known as Mr. Devil. Our podcast episode delved deep into the heart of the Devils organization, exploring its ongoing season, unique community engagement initiatives, and unwavering optimism for the future.
Ken Daneyko, a New Jersey Devils legend, reflected on the franchise’s evolution since its inception in 1982, emphasizing the significance of winning in building a devoted fan base. He shared insights from his own journey, from player to broadcaster, highlighting the team’s profound impact on the state of New Jersey. Despite recent challenges on the ice, Daneyko remained resolutely optimistic, underlining the importance of resilience and the unwavering support of fans.
Jake Reynolds, President of the New Jersey Devils, illuminated the team’s commitment to community service and its deep integration into the fabric of New Jersey. He discussed the Devil’s Youth Foundation and its mission to give back to underserved communities by addressing pressing issues such as food insecurity, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle education. Reynolds highlighted the team’s move from East Rutherford to downtown Newark, emphasizing accessibility and community involvement as central pillars of their mission.
Throughout our conversation, both Daneyko and Reynolds expressed unwavering optimism about the team’s future despite recent challenges on the ice. They emphasized the resilience of the Devils’ young core and the importance of role players in supporting their growth. Drawing inspiration from successful teams’ journeys, they remained steadfast in their belief in the team’s trajectory and potential for future success.
As we concluded our discussion, the prevailing sentiment was one of gratitude—for the unwavering support of fans, the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community, and the unique atmosphere of the Prudential Center. The conversation served as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the New Jersey Devils and their dedication to both excellence on the ice and meaningful contributions off it.
About the Author/s
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.
