January 19, 2026

Celebrating Our CHI & PIT Chapter Members’ NHL EBUG Moments and Community Impact

In the world of Hockey Players in Business, our members continue to prove that the drive, discipline, and passion forged on the ice translate seamlessly into the boardroom—and sometimes, right back onto the NHL bench.

We’re thrilled to share an exciting update from our Chicago Chapter President, Peter DeJong: Our very own member, David Nozzolillo (affectionately known as “Nozz”), recently received the ultimate call-up as the emergency backup goalie (EBUG) for the Chicago Blackhawks!

David, a dedicated member of the Chicago chapter, suited up and took his place on the bench during a recent Blackhawks home game at the United Center. The 45-year-old banker and longtime beer-league goalie—who has served as one of the team’s four designated EBUGs for the past four years—experienced the thrill of a lifetime. After a routine day that even included a classic pre-game meal of naked wings and fries at Hooters, David signed a one-day amateur tryout contract and was ready to step in if needed.

While he didn’t see game action (watching the full game from the bench instead), the moment was unforgettable—complete with his own jersey and the goosebumps that come with living out a dream. The Chicago chapter, and the entire Hockey Players in Business network, couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations, Dave! Seeing one of our own in the NHL spotlight is inspiring for every member balancing business careers with their love of the game.

ESPN did a recent article about Dave’s experience that is a must read, check it out here: https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/47618197/david-nozzolillo-wild-night-ebug-chicago-blackhawks

This Chicago highlight comes as similar stories emerge across our chapters. Over in Pittsburgh, under the strong leadership of Tyler Rose, our member Jeff Siwik is also deeply connected to the NHL world as one of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ home emergency backup goalies. A Senior Consulting Actuary at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co, Jeff brings professional expertise on the ice and shares valuable insights with our group about the EBUG process—from preparation to the excitement of being on call.

To date, Jeff hasn’t had to dress for a Penguins game, but his involvement keeps him right in the heart of the action. Adding to his impressive hockey resume, Jeff is gearing up to participate in The Goalie Game—a unique, goalie-only charity hockey event that promises high-energy, head-to-head battles among local netminders, coached by Pittsburgh celebrities.

Here are the details on this exciting upcoming event:

Date and Time: Friday, February 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST
Location: UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, 8000 Cranberry Springs Dr, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066

The 2nd Annual Goalie Game is the largest fundraiser for Pittsburgh I.C.E. (Inclusion. Creates. Equality.), an NHL “Hockey is for Everyone” program dedicated to providing children of all socioeconomic backgrounds the chance to play ice hockey. By breaking down barriers to entry, Pittsburgh I.C.E. teaches life skills, leadership, commitment, and the core values of the game.

Jeff is actively fundraising for the cause—having already surpassed his $300 goal with over $785 raised from supporters—and he’s participating because he believes in giving kids the same opportunities hockey has given him. Beyond suiting up for the Penguins when called, Jeff plays in beer leagues, subs for teams, coaches young goalies at Mt. Lebanon, and offers private lessons, all while emphasizing leadership on and off the ice.

You can support Jeff and Pittsburgh I.C.E. by checking out his donation page here: https://givebutter.com/thegoaliegame2026/jeffsiwik For full event info: https://www.pittsburghice.org/goaliegame

Stories like David’s and Jeff’s remind us why Hockey Players in Business is more than a network—it’s a community of individuals who chase excellence in business while staying true to their roots in hockey. Whether it’s stepping onto an NHL bench or battling for a great cause in a goalie showdown, our members continue to inspire.

Congrats again to Nozz on his unforgettable night, and best of luck to Jeff in The Goalie Game—let’s keep cheering them on! If you have similar stories from your chapter, share them with us. The puck drops on more success stories every day. 🏒