Local hockey player, Ryan Straschnitzki was reunited with several of his Humboldt Broncos teammates last night in Las Vegas. 

Straschnitzki and nine of the surviving players of the tragic bus crash from April 6th took the stage at the NHL Awards where they were greeted with a standing ovation.

(Photo Courtesy: Tom Straschnitzki)

One of Straschnitzki’s teammates, Kaleb Dahlgren, spoke to the crowd, sharing the team’s gratitude for the support they’ve received from the hockey world over the last two and a half months.

Straschnitzki says he enjoyed the entire experience.

"It was amazing. We can't thank the NHL enough for hosting us. Players were fantastic and we really appreciate it."

After their speech to the crowd, NHL legend Willie O’Ree came to the stage to present the first ever Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award to the team’s late coach Darcy Haughan.

Straschnitzki says the award couldn't have gone to a better person.

"Darcy was one of the best people you'd ever meet, he was so humble like his wife said, it's not about what happened on April 6th, it's about what he did before that. This is why he got the award. He's just an overall great guy, he really deserved it."

Darcy’s wife Christina accepted the award and repeated the core covenant that Darcy painted outside the Broncos dressing room.

“Family first. Treat my teammates and co-workers with respect. Be thankful for the opportunity to wear the Bronco jersey. Play each game and practice with passion and determination. Conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity. Treat all volunteers, billets, sponsors and fans with respect and gratitude. Understand that we are building foundations for future generations with our words and actions. Always have hope and believe everything is possible. Always give more than you take. Strive for greatness in all areas of life.”

Straschnitzki and his teammates also took time to take in the sights and sounds of the awards and meet with NHL stars like P.K. Subban, Connor McDavid and Taylor Hall.

Straschnitzki is continuing his recovery at the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia.

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