Photos from the 2006 New Jersey Devils Back-to-School Backpack Event
September 6, 2006

On Wednesday, September 6, 2006 the New Jersey Devils hockey team partnered with The Newark Public Library for a special back-to-school event. Local students were invited to see the New Jersey Devils/Newark Arena model, learn more about hockey, and receive a special backpack to get ready for the upcoming school year.

Special guests at the event included Devils' owners Jeff Vanderbeek and Mike Gilfillan, along with former Devils' left wing Rob Skrlac. The NJ Devil (the team's mascot) enjoyed the festivities along with the Library's mascot, Corky.

The Newark Arena model will remain on display at the Main Library through September 20, 2006.

The Devils will also be co-sponsoring a special story contest for students in grades 1-8. Entitled, Newark, Hockey and Me, the contest will allow children to write a story about the relationship between the Devils, the Newark community, and the kids themselves. The contest begins on September 18, and all entries are due (on the official booklet) by Saturday, December 9, 2006.

Click here to read more about the official rules and requirements for the contest.

Devils' owner Jeff Vanderbeek with Library director Wilma J. Grey
 

Devils' owner Mike Gilfillan with Library Director Wilma J. Grey and Devils' owner Jeff Vanderbeek
 

Former Devils' left wing Rob Skrlac with Newark students
 

Event organizer, Hope Gamble, with Newark students
 

Former Devil Rob Skrlac with the NJ Devil and Corky, the Library's mascot
 

Jeff Vanderbeek and Heather Hall of the Devils, with Hope Gamble and Mike Gilfillan of the Devils
 

Photo credits: The Newark Public Library