FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DALLAS, TX — The Dallas Stars Alumni Association continues to make an impact off the ice through its partnership with the Dallas Stars Foundation’s “Stick With Reading” initiative, bringing the excitement of hockey and the importance of literacy directly into local classrooms.
Throughout the month of May, Dallas Stars Alumni Association President Bob Bassen and former Dallas Stars defenseman Brad Lukowich joined forces with the Dallas Stars Foundation to visit students at Grapevine Elementary School and Richardson Heights Elementary School. Accompanied by beloved Dallas Stars mascot Victor E. Green, the group spent time engaging with students and promoting the value of reading through an interactive storytime experience.
During each visit, Bassen and Lukowich read the children’s hockey-themed book Z is for Zamboni to enthusiastic groups of elementary students. The book introduces young readers to hockey terminology and concepts while encouraging a lifelong love of reading. Students were treated to a memorable experience that combined education, entertainment, and the unique opportunity to interact with former professional hockey players and one of North Texas’ most recognizable mascots.
“The ability to connect with young people in our community is one of the most rewarding aspects of what we do as alumni,” said Bob Bassen, President of the Dallas Stars Alumni Association. “Reading is one of the most important skills a child can develop, and we’re proud to support the Stars Foundation’s efforts to encourage literacy while creating positive memories for these students.”
Lukowich echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement beyond the game of hockey.
“As players, we were fortunate to have incredible support from the community throughout our careers,” said Brad Lukowich. “Programs like Stick With Reading give us an opportunity to give back, encourage kids to stay engaged in school, and hopefully inspire them to discover a love for reading.”
The Stick With Reading campaign is part of the Dallas Stars Foundation’s ongoing commitment to education and youth development across North Texas. By bringing hockey personalities into local schools, the program helps create excitement around reading while reinforcing the importance of literacy as a foundation for future success.
The Dallas Stars Alumni Association regularly partners with the Dallas Stars Foundation on community outreach initiatives that extend the organization’s impact far beyond the rink. Through school visits, charitable events, youth hockey programs, and community engagement efforts, alumni players continue to serve as ambassadors for the game while making a meaningful difference throughout North Texas.
For the students at Grapevine Elementary and Richardson Heights Elementary, the visits provided more than just a story—they offered a memorable reminder that learning can be fun, reading can open doors, and sometimes a Zamboni can help inspire a lifelong reader.
About the Dallas Stars Alumni Association
The Dallas Stars Alumni Association is dedicated to supporting charitable causes, growing the game of hockey, and strengthening communities throughout North Texas through the involvement of former Dallas Stars players and hockey ambassadors.
About the Dallas Stars Foundation
The Dallas Stars Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of children, families, veterans, and diverse communities throughout North Texas through charitable giving, community programs, and impactful partnerships.