NIAGARA FALLS, NY – A local charity supported by a former Buffalo Sabres captain received proceeds from a recent celebrity blackjack tournament held at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.
Craig Rivet, a defenseman who played parts of three seasons with the Sabres, serving as the team’s captain throughout his tenure, won the charity event at the region’s premier gaming and entertainment resort destination. His victory meant a $25,000 donation to Rivet’s selected charity, The Miracle League of Western New York. The league provides children with adaptive needs the opportunity to play baseball on a custom-designed field.
Rivet’s path to winning the tournament was unexpected. After securing a wildcard spot at the final table, he drew a final hand of 21 to take the win. A total of 160 invited participants took part in the tournament, playing alongside 11 celebrities. In addition to Rivet, other celebrities who played in the special outing included: fellow Buffalo Sabres alumni Marty Biron, Patrick Kaleta and Rob Ray; Buffalo Bills linebacker Joe Andreessen and Bills alumni George Wilson; former NBA player Greg Oden; Buffalo Bandits Tehoka Nanticoke and Clay Scanlan; and influencers Abby Nashwinter and Roderick Smith.
“What an incredible moment,” said Joanne Israel, Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino General Manager. “The energy and atmosphere throughout the event were electric. We are so grateful that so many people and our roster of celebrities participated in this special tournament, and that, in the end, it was a very special group of local children who came out as the big winners.”
