The Vegas Golden Knights marked the ninth anniversary of the October 1 tragedy on Thursday with a private practice and meet-and-greet for first responders at City National Arena, reaffirming the organization's ongoing commitment to the Las Vegas community.
The event coincided with the team's eighth annual blood drive partnership with Vitalant, a blood donation company. Vitalant Communications Manager Nicole Schultz credited the Golden Knights' involvement with driving community participation in the donation effort.
"When the Golden Knights put their name and their weight behind something, the community is almost guaranteed to show up," Schultz said. She noted that each blood donation can help two or more patients in need, extending far beyond emergency situations.
The blood drive also featured community booths, including one operated by the Honored 25 Foundation, founded by 1 October survivor Kristin Munding. The foundation focuses on mental health support for first responders affected by the tragedy.
"I wanted to be able to do something more than just say thank you," Munding said. "We see so many people that are still struggling. Even though they see hard events all the time, first responders are still struggling with 1 October in particular."
Munding, who attended Thursday's event, expressed gratitude for the Golden Knights' continued involvement with survivors and the community. "The Golden Knights have been so amazing, just as a survivor, they've been such a light to all of us, that they still continue to do so much for the Route 91 community and the Las Vegas community," she said.
Head Coach Ryan Craig, who has been with the franchise since its inaugural season in 2017—just weeks before October 1—reflected on the organization's early response to the tragedy.
"There was a rally within the community to support each other in any way we could," Craig said. "I think the bond that was forged between the team and the city has carried through here the past nine years."
Patrol Detective Amy May, who was present at the Route 91 Festival the night of the shooting, attended Thursday's event. She highlighted the Golden Knights' unique role in the community.
"For a team to support us, support the community, and just care is just something I've never seen at any sporting event I've ever been to. It just shows how much they appreciate the people who live here," May said.
Long-time fan Katie Zafiris, who witnessed the community's initial enthusiasm for the new hockey team and its response following the tragedy, credited the Golden Knights' actions with deepening fan loyalty.
"I think everyone was really excited to get a hockey team, but I think once the community saw how everyone banded together right after that and just showed their respect, I think it just brought even more love to the team," Zafiris said.