The Stanley Cup made it’s way to Vaughan on Friday afternoon. Andrew Cogliano, of the Stanley Cup winning Colorado Avalanche, brought the Stanley Cup to Al Palladini to share with the Vaughan community. Teams, players and families from all across the Vaughan hockey community came to meet Andrew and get a picture with the Cup. The biggest smiles filled the arena all afternoon, including Cogliano who sports hockey’s greatest smile.

Cogliano began his early hockey career playing select hockey in the NYHL. At the Tyke and Minor Novice ages, Andrew played for the Richmond Hill Vaughan Kings before moving onto AA with the Vaughan Panthers and then AAA with the Vaughan Kings. Current president of the City of Vaughan Hockey Association, Barry Harte, also began his 30 year involvement with minor hockey by coaching Andrew from Tyke all the way to Peewee.

Cogliano was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the first round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft at 25^th overall. Cogliano has played for the Edmonton Oilers, the Anaheim Ducks, the Dallas Stars, the San Jose Sharks and the Colorado Avalanche throughout his career. He held the 4^th longest Ironman streak in NHL history with 830 games played consecutively before the streak was broken. He currently sits at 7^th All Time in the NHL. Cogliano was no stranger to playoff hockey when he was traded at the deadline from the Sharks to Colorado. By 2022, Cogliano had played in 100 playoff games and went all the way to the Stanley Cup final in 2020 with the Stars. The ultimate goal would finally be achieved in 2022 when he helped the Colorado Avalanche best the Tampa Bay Lightning to become the Stanley Cup champions after 15 seasons.  Andrew’s hard work, dedicated work ethic and commitment to the game are key factors to his success and is visibly evident from the respect and admiration he’s shown from his teammates.

Congratulations Andrew and we wish you continued success in your career!