New York Islander goaltender Rick DiPietro bought lunch for 5,000 fans at yesterday’s Islanders-Senators game. DiPietro handed out vouchers to the first 5,000 fans himself, which got them a hot dog and small pop at the New York Islanders Fan Appreciation Day. The franchise goalie paid for the food out of his own pocket to thank the fans for all of their support.
DiPietro holds the NHL record for the longest contract, signing with the club for 15-years in 2006. Despite the kind gesture, DiPietro has often times found himself at odds with the fans with a career plauged with injuries and under performance.
DiPietro told NewYorkIslanders.com, “I just wanted to show the fans how much I appreciate them and how much I appreciate being a New York Islander. It’s just a gesture to show the fans how much I care.”
