6TH ANNUAL EMILE FRANCIS AWARD
presented by World Yacht

Saluting Volunteerism in Youth Hockey

In recognition of the sacrifice, dedication, and impact that volunteers have on grassroots development and youth and amateur hockey, the New York Rangers are proud to offer the 6th annual Emile Francis Award, presented by World Yacht. This award honors former Rangers Coach and General Manager Emile Francis, who is a longtime supporter of minor hockey and also founded the Metropolitan Junior Hockey Association, which created the foundation from which many local amateur hockey associations and leagues were born.

Each year, the youth hockey community has the opportunity to nominate fellow youth hockey supporters for their outstanding service. Nominees should exemplify selfless community outreach, integrity and passion for the growth of youth hockey and generously give their time to the next crop of NHL hopefuls. From these nominees one winner will be selected and honored on-ice as part of Rangers Youth Hockey Night on Tuesday, February 19, 2013.

• VIDEO: Brian Mullen on Emile Francis' Legacy
• VIDEO: Nick Fotiu on What Francis Meant to Him
• VIDEO: Ron Greschner on How Francis Changed His Life

AWARD CRITERIA Length of Service/Involvement in hockey Drive/Passion for the game of hockey Impact in growing the game at the grassroots level Community/charity involvement Emile Francis Award Winners 2012-13 -- Joseph Ruggiero, New York Raptors 2011-12 -- Kevin Connolly, Ossining High School 2010-11 -- Caroline Loeb, Brewster Lady Bulldogs 2009-10 – Peter Caputo, Scarsdale Youth Hockey 2008-09 – Tony Mazzola, Mid State Golden Blades 2007-08 – Christopher Schuler, Monsignor Farrell High School

The nomination process has ended for this season, and we look forward to announcing the award winner at Youth Hockey Night on Feb. 19.

Read the Official Rules.