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Community Corner

Newport Hockey Legend Trades in Skates for Sneakers

Scott Niedermayer, an all-star Anaheim Ducks player, is the Honorary Chairman of today's 4th annual Orange County Ronald McDonald House Charity Walk For Kids at the Honda Center.

Hockey legend Scott Niedermayer will return to the Honda Center today but this time he will be wearing his sneakers instead of skates.

Niedermayer, of Newport Beach, along with his wife Lisa and their four boys -- Logan, Jackson, Joshua and Luke -- will serve as Honorary Chairs of the Orange County Ronald McDonald House's 2012 Walk for Kids. Niedermayer says the organization is dear to his family.

"Anything that helps kids and the parents that are going through a hard time is important,” Niedermayer said.

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In addition to being honorary chairs, the family also created their own "Team Niedermayer" which raised $8,820 and is made up of kids in the community, the Jr. Ducks Hockey Program and their own kids.

The couple's 11 year-old son, Jackson, said he is excited to be a part of the event.

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“It’s cool to be a part of Walk for Kids with my dad, because the money we raise helps families with kids in the hospital,” Jackson said.

Niedermayer has lived in Newport Beach since 2005 when he signed on to play for the Anaheim Ducks. The retired Canadian ice hockey all-star defenseman, who played 18 seasons in the National Hockey League, was known for his skating stride and leadership. He is the only player in ice hockey history to have won every major North American and international championship, including two Olympic gold medals.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities was created over 30 years ago and provides shelter and support for families of children receiving medical care at nearby hospitals. The Orange County Ronald McDonald custom - built house is a  comfortable home-like environment with 23 private bedrooms and baths and shared community kitchen which is provided at little to no cost to the families.

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