Matthew Tkachuk shares Stanley Cup joy with kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital

ST. LOUIS – Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk enjoyed his turn with the Stanley Cup in his hometown of St. Louis, sharing the excitement with kids Thursday at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Tkachuk spent his morning meeting many children at the hospital and taking pictures with them and the Stanley Cup. He also encouraged many of them to touch, hug and lift the NHL’s grand trophy.

Tkachuk, a first-time Stanley Cup champion at age 26, says his mission is to spread the winning spirit in St. Louis, especially with children in need.

“It’s super special,” said Tkachuk. “There’s really nothing like seeing kids that might not be fortunate as I am to be able to play hockey and compete for this and that might be dealing with stuff. I have no idea what that is like, so they are really inspirational.”

“Seeing the reactions are priceless to me,” said Tkachuk. “For them to see it, hug it and hold it, and see their smile, that’s the most important thing.”

While visiting St. Louis, Tkachuk also had the opportunity to bring the Stanley Cup trophy to one of his favorite restaurants on Wednesday, local Italian eatery Grassi’s Ristorante. The Stanley Cup also made pit stops at his elementary school, Villa Duchesne in Frontenac, along with the Brentwood police and fire departments.

Tkachuk and his brother Brady were heavily involved in local junior hockey programs around St. Louis as kids. Both are also the sons of former Blues great Keith Tkachuk. All three have vast experience in the NHL, though Matthew has bragging rights with the only Stanley Cup title in the family.

Tkachuk’s special celebration with the Cup comes less than a month after the Panthers won their first Stanley Cup title in franchise history, defeating the Edmonton Oilers in seven games for the championship. Tkachuk had six goals and 16 assists for 22 points over 24 playoffs games last season.

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