Jack Hughes delights Devils fans at Jersey City meet-and-greet
The star forward stopped by Dick’s House of Sport, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager for a chance to meet one of hockey’s biggest names.
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Devils fans of all ages got a special treat in Jersey City as Olympic gold medalist and New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes made a highly anticipated appearance at Newport Centre Mall.
The star forward stopped by Dick’s House of Sport, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager for a chance to meet one of hockey’s biggest names. Hughes posed for photos and chatted with fans during the evening meet-and-greet.
To manage the demand, 250 wristbands were handed out early in the morning, with some fans lining up as early as 6 a.m. before heading to work. While longtime Devils supporters packed the store, it was the youngest fans—many of them aspiring hockey players—who seemed most inspired by the visit.
“I’ve been playing for seven years, since I was four,” said 11-year-old Brynn Mauer, who plays for both the Lady Bandits and the Jersey City Capitals. Eight-year-old Ethan Seok said Hughes has become a role model for his own game. “I got really interested in scoring goals and stick handling, so my dad always says to watch Jack as a good example.”Ethan’s mother, Julie Seok, added that Hughes’ influence extends beyond the NHL. “Ethan plays on a team called Hockey New Jersey. We’re so appreciative of everything Jack does for the team. He’s really an ambassador for the sport,” she said.
Hughes recently solidified his place in hockey history as a member of Team USA during the 2026 Winter Olympics, where he scored the game-winning overtime goal against Canada to secure the gold medal. For the fans who met him in Jersey City, that achievement made the day even more memorable—and for young players, it offered inspiration that could last a lifetime.
