Las Vegas, Nevada – At the annual ESPY Awards, Florida Panthers right winger Brad Marchand received the coveted Pat Tillman Award for Service, which transcended the game of hockey. Marchand, known throughout the NHL for his ferocious competitiveness and unrivaled drive on the ice, had his off-ice achievements highlighted in a very emotional and moving tribute that honored his incredible devotion to veterans and their families.
Marchand, 36, was joined on stage during the ceremony by many distinguished warriors who had competed in the Invictus Games, an international adaptive athletic event for wounded, disabled, or sick military service members and veterans. The audience erupted in a standing ovation, not only for the NHL All-Star’s professional successes, but also for the compassion, dedication, and unselfish service he has shown to the veteran community.
The Pat Tillman Award for dedication, named after the late NFL player and Army Ranger who died in Afghanistan, is given to someone who has demonstrated outstanding dedication and sacrifice off the field. Marchand’s award is the result of years of diligent labor by his nonprofit, Marchand Mission, which provides mental health support, job transition services, and financial aid to veterans in the United States and Canada.
Marchand’s voice quiver with emotion throughout his winning speech:
“This recognition means more to me than any prize I’ve ever won on the ice. Pat Tillman’s bravery and sacrifice are inspiring, and it’s an honor to be acknowledged beside him. I’ve witnessed our veterans’ courage and perseverance firsthand, and I promise to continue standing beside them, off the ice, just like they did for us.”
Marchand’s involvement with veteran advocacy began years ago, when he went to a military rehabilitation center for an offseason charity event. He was deeply moved by the stories of injured warriors and promised to utilize his position to raise awareness and provide assistance to those who had given their all for their countries. Since then, Marchand has sponsored dozens of fundraisers, advocated for better veteran healthcare, and personally supported rehabilitation and housing initiatives for homeless veterans.
Teammates and NHL officials have praised Marchand’s charitable activities. Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov stated, “What Brad does for the military community comes from his heart. He’s a leader in every way—on and off the rink.”
Even Marchand’s fiercest adversaries have appreciated the honor. A moving video montage featured tributes from hockey stars, Invictus Games players, and military families whose lives had been changed by his kindness.
The honor not only solidifies Brad Marchand’s reputation as a world-class athlete but also as a man of integrity and purpose. Marchand’s example exemplifies how brilliance is assessed on influence rather than goals or points.
As Marchand exited the stage, escorted by the soldiers he so passionately loves, the audience realized this was more than simply a ceremony. It was a reminder of what it really means to serve.