The Las Vegas Veteran

In 2017, Las Vegas introduced its first NHL team, The Vegas Golden Knights. It spurred an obsession for ice hockey throughout the valley, with amateur sports teams sprouting from all ages. That year, military veteran Jason Griego saw the perfect opportunity to help his fellow veterans by forming a non-profit hockey team and organization.

The Vegas Veteran Hockey Foundation (VVHF) was started to give veterans a place to connect with peers, help their community, and work on their mental health while staying physically fit. It was the perfect combination. “The team creates a positive environment that is healing for veterans, from physical activities to the talks in the locker room,” Griego said.

Growing up in Colorado, Griego gained his love of hockey skating on a friend’s frozen pond. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1992, rising through the ranks and learning invaluable lessons in leadership and organizational management until he retired in 2016. The skills that Griego gained from his twenty-four years in the military and his love for hockey gave him an advantage when starting his team.

In the last 5 years, the foundation has grown from a simple hockey team to a large and influential non-profit in the community. There were no other hockey teams for veterans in the valley, which gave the non-profit room for growth. Johnny Shelton, the team’s Active-Duty Liaison, has been playing with the team for 3 years. Shelton joined the Air Force in 2003 and started playing hockey in 2015, and it became an instant obsession. He said playing the sport and being around a team keeps him sane, “You play with the guys, and you have something in common… they speak your language.”

When the Vegas Veteran Hockey Foundation grew and became more established in Las Vegas, Shelton wanted to give back to the foundation. As one of the few Active-Duty military players involved with the team, being the bridge between the foundation and recruiting other veterans worked well.

With its growth, the Vegas Veteran Hockey Foundation also began to give back to the community. They started toy drives, clothing drives, and Back to School donations. “The Vegas Veteran Hockey Team is community-based.” Griego said, “Giving back is a great way for the guys to get involved and feel a sense of purpose.”

The Vegas Veteran Hockey Foundation has grown to about 128 players and wants to continue growing. The entire purpose of the organization is to give veterans a place to bond with their peers and find an active and healthy place to heal their mental health. The Vegas Veteran Hockey Foundation offers a “Learn-to-Skate” program for veterans that are just getting into ice hockey. Shelton was adamant about veterans joining the group and gaining a community “Do it. Just jump in.”

The non-profit also appreciates donations through their website or anyone willing to help give back to the community with them. On December 3rd, the foundation is hosting another Toy Drive for Christmas and encourages those who are willing, to give back.