Even after the lights dimmed on the 2026 NHL Draft, the experience continued to shine for Canisius University students who played a key role in helping bring the event to life.
Nearly 20 students in the Sport Management program served as NHL Ambassadors during the two-day event in Buffalo, guiding draft prospects and their families through one of the biggest moments of their lives while working alongside NHL staff, team personnel and media professionals.
For Brandon Lukomski '25, MS '26, one assignment became especially meaningful.
"The most memorable moment for me was serving as the photo tank guide for Buffalo Sabres fourth overall pick Daxon Rudolph," Lukomski said. "As a lifelong Sabres fan, getting the chance to congratulate one of the future players for my hometown team and be part of such a life-changing moment is something I'll never forget."
Beyond the excitement, Lukomski said the experience provided a behind-the-scenes look at the teamwork and professionalism required to stage one of hockey's premier events.
"Working alongside NHL public relations and social media staff showed me how much coordination goes into every moment," he said. "I'll carry those experiences and the skills I developed with me throughout my career."
For Rebecca Hai '27, the most rewarding part of the weekend came immediately after players heard their names called.
"The most memorable moment was being the first person to greet a newly selected player as he stepped off the stage," Hai said. "He was still taking in everything that had just happened, and I was able to guide him through the media stations before helping him reunite with his family. Knowing I could help make one of the biggest days of his life a little smoother is something I'll never forget."
Hai said working behind the scenes reinforced her interest in a career in sports while strengthening skills she'll use long after graduation.
"I saw firsthand how much communication, adaptability and professionalism it takes to operate an event of this scale," she said. "The experience gave me an even clearer picture of the career opportunities available in sports management and made me even more excited to pursue them."
The NHL Draft marked the largest student participation from Canisius at a professional sporting event to date, offering students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience while building connections throughout the sports industry.
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Canisius Students Take Center Ice at the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo
