Here’s a number that lands like a clean open-ice hit: 4 million. That’s how many vulnerable kids across Quebec have been reached by the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. David Savard is now helping to increase this impact.
After a 14-year NHL career, Savard is moving from playing hockey to helping others. He and his wife, Valérie Lachance, are joining forces. They will use their calm and steady leadership for a good cause.
This story is about David Savard’s new chapter. He’s known to fans as dave savard. Now, he’s focusing on making a difference in the Montreal community.
Stu sets the scene, and the Montreal community provides the heartbeat. A former Canadien shows that leaving the rink doesn’t mean leaving the team.
Overview: A former Canadien shifts from the ice to community leadership
David Savard, after 14 seasons in hockey, now leads in a new way. His calm presence, once seen on the ice, now helps the community. Fans of the Canadien de Montréal will see him in a new light.
He remains close to the locker-room heartbeat, speaking to supporters who track every game du Canadien. This move keeps a familiar face within the Habs NHL orbit while widening the impact beyond the rink.
Retirement after a 14-year NHL career and a new chapter in Montreal
Retirement didn’t cut his ties to CanadiensMontreal. Instead, it gave him a chance to serve and mentor. In a city that loves the game du Canadien, his continued presence is important.
Roundup focus: From Habs NHL blue-liner to community advocate
He’s known for his blocks and quiet leadership. Now, he uses that grit to help kids and families. The Habs NHL ties remain, but his focus is on outreach that reflects CanadiensMontreal values.
Relevance for fans following the Canadien de Montréal and montreal playoffs narratives
As montreal playoffs chatter grows, his voice adds depth to the crest’s meaning. Fans who live for each game du Canadien will see a clear connection between his on-ice resolve and local action.
| Theme | On-Ice Role | Community Role | Fan Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leadership | Trusted Habs NHL defender guiding pairings | Visible advocate with the Canadien de Montréal network | Familiar compass in and beyond the rink |
| Impact | Key stops in tight game du Canadien moments | Programs that support youth across the city | Wins measured in chances for kids |
| Identity | Steady, team-first David Savard hockey | Service that mirrors CanadiensMontreal culture | Pride that aligns with montreal playoffs goals |
Spokespeople for the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation
On Thursday at the Bell Centre, the David Savard family took on a new role. They were named the voice of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation for its 25th year. This moment links the team’s on-ice success to making a difference in the community for CanadiensMontreal fans.
Announcement tied to the foundation’s 25th anniversary
The year-long celebration is a big deal for the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. David Savard and Valérie Lachance will lead outreach efforts. They will focus on how play, health, and access shape youth futures in Quebec.
Role significance: A first formal spokesperson duo in 25 years
Back in the early days, Guy Lafleur was the Foundation’s first president. But a formal spokesperson duo had never been named. The David Savard family’s appointment brings a new, structured approach to engaging with the CanadiensMontreal community.
Geneviève Paquette on values, voice, and impact
Geneviève Paquette, vice-president of community engagement, highlighted the importance of people. She said the couple’s values align with the Foundation’s mission. They will lead the Foundation’s efforts during the anniversary year and beyond.
With shared roots in hockey and service, their platform now amplifies programs that help kids move, belong, and thrive—true to the spirit that Guy Lafleur championed and that CanadiensMontreal supporters recognize.
Foundation impact: Bleu Blanc Bouge and investments across Quebec
The Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation aims to give kids a fair chance. It turns empty lots into safe places for ice and sports through Bleu Blanc Bouge. This connects Habs NHL philanthropy with the daily lives of kids in need.
Every dollar is spent on making sure kids have access, health, and a sense of belonging. Rinks become places where kids learn teamwork and gain confidence. Local groups run the programs, and the Foundation provides the tools and training.
$54.4 million invested to date and 1,000+ organizations supported
The Foundation has spent $54.4 million on programs, grants, and equipment. This shows careful management. It supports over 1,000 organizations in Quebec, from youth centres to school boards.
The approach combines Bleu Blanc Bouge with Habs NHL philanthropy. This ensures funds meet local needs clearly.
15 refrigerated outdoor rinks built, with a 17th coming Dec. 2
There are 15 outdoor rinks open all year, for skating and ball hockey. A new rink will open on Dec. 2. Each rink offers more than just ice, with programs like tutoring and nutrition tips.
Reaching more than 4 million vulnerable children province-wide
More than 4 million vulnerable kids have been reached through programs and events. The Foundation works with schools, holds festivals, and runs camps. This consistent effort helps kids move, learn, and connect all year.
| Focus Area | What It Delivers | Reach and Scale | Community Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bleu Blanc Bouge Rinks | Safe, refrigerated outdoor ice plus multi-sport use | 15 built; 17th opening Dec. 2 | Local programming with schools and youth groups |
| Financial Support | $54.4 million invested in grants and equipment | 1,000+ organizations supported | Partnerships driven by Quebec community investment |
| Youth Participation | Free access to sport, skills, and mentorship | 4M+ vulnerable children reached | CanadiensMontreal outreach and Habs NHL philanthropy |
| Health and Education | Movement, nutrition, and after-school learning | Year-round activation | Programs tailored with community feedback |
The family story: Valérie Lachance and the Savard kids at the heart of giving
They aim to keep the David Savard family close to what’s important. They also want to uplift the Montreal community with small actions. With Valérie Lachance, they draw on Quebec City roots to build a life filled with joy.
Parents of Emma, Elliot, and Zachary: modelling “move, play sports, eat well”
At home, routines guide Emma, Elliot, and Zachary. They learn to move often, play sports, and eat well. This mirrors the Foundation’s mission and keeps the family grounded.
Small choices make a big difference. After-school skating, playing soccer, and simple meals show how values become practice in the Montreal community.
“This is the first time we can do something that matters to us together”
A lunch with the Foundation opened their eyes to its impact across Quebec. Valérie Lachance shared their desire to act together. This unity makes their work fulfilling and keeps their kids involved.
This unity makes their work fulfilling. It’s a way to give back while keeping their kids part of the story.
Quebec City roots, Montreal community ties, and staying close to family
They met young and never lost sight of home. Their Quebec City roots guide them today. They are building strong ties in the Montreal community and staying close to family.
Choosing to settle here balances school, sport, and family. For the David Savard family, this balance keeps their purpose clear. For Valérie Lachance, it strengthens their circle.
Life after hockey: routines, identity, and being “happy from inside out”
David Savard noticed the quiet after hockey. He now enjoys a new rhythm, from school drop-offs to family time. This balance makes him feel grounded and happy.
Adjusting schedules, missing the room, and finding balance
He misses the camaraderie of hockey. But now, he has time for workouts and family. This change helps him find balance.
He finds joy in small victories, like a tidy morning. This focus helps him stay present in his life.
Lachance’s perspective: more time at home, school volunteering continues
Valérie Lachance notices the change at home. David’s presence makes life easier. She continues her work and volunteering, with his support.
The couple works together, sharing household tasks. This teamwork brings stability to their lives.
Inside out dad moments: being present for practices, weekends, and milestones
The kids enjoy having David around for everyday moments. He’s there for practices, breakfasts, and milestones.
They understand the value of a calm life. David’s hockey career has given way to a fulfilling family life.
Career reflections: from Columbus to Tampa Bay to CanadiensMontreal
He looks back with calm pride. His journey started with the Columbus Blue Jackets, then moved to the Tampa Bay Lightning. He ended up with CanadiensMontreal. Each stop shaped his game and leadership. The memories are as fresh as the ice on a cold morning.
Nine seasons with the Blue Jackets and a Stanley Cup with Tampa Bay
Nine years in Ohio were foundational. With the Columbus Blue Jackets, he learned to handle tough games. A move to the Tampa Bay Lightning brought a new challenge and a Stanley Cup 2021 win. The ring is a symbol of hard work, but the lessons learned are more valuable.
Signing in 2021 with Canadien Montreal to strengthen the family’s French
In 2021, he joined Canadien Montreal for hockey and to improve his French. The family wanted to learn French and spend Sundays with grandparents. Montreal welcomed them, and they felt it everywhere.
Game du Canadien memories, rebuilding years, and leadership in the room
During the rebuild, he led by example. He set high standards, led in practice, and spoke up when needed. Every game du Canadien night at the Bell Centre was electric.
He used his experience from Tampa and Columbus to guide younger players. His mix of patience and determination helped the team. The crest, the crowd, and the rhythm of hockey in Montreal guided him with CanadiensMontreal.
Mentorship and legacy: lane partners, young Habs, and culture-building
In a season that asked veterans to guide the room, David Savard leaned into a quiet, steady voice. His approach blended care with standards, shaping a leadership culture that young players could trust and follow.
Being Lane Hutson’s first NHL defence partner
Savard was Lane Hutson’s first NHL defence partner for his first two games. He focused on pace and calm, letting the puck do the work and giving the youngster clean touches early.
He praised Hutson’s poise and timing, saying he arrived with a plan on every shift. This poise is now a marker for Habs NHL prospects who want to break plays and manage risk.
Setting standards: “leave it better than you found it”
His rule was simple: leave it better than you found it. This message was carried from practice to travel days, becoming a daily test for the room. Small habits became the proof of the David Savard legacy in Montreal.
Even after elimination, he pushed for sharp details. He kept the mood light when needed and firm when required, supporting growth for Lane Hutson and other Habs NHL prospects.
Texts from former teammates: remembered as a good person first
Messages arrive from old teammates, including those from Columbus years. They check in, swap stories, and share pride in the journey. To Savard, that is the best measure of a career done right.
Those notes underline what matters most: relationships built on respect. It’s a thread that ties together Lane Hutson’s first steps, a durable leadership culture, and the living proof of the David Savard legacy.
| Focus Area | Action by Savard | Impact on Young Players | Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-pair support | Gave Lane Hutson early touches and clear reads | Boosted confidence and puck tempo | Faster NHL adjustment for Habs NHL prospects |
| Standards and habits | Insisted on detail after every skate | Raised day-to-day accountability | Embedded leadership culture in the room |
| Pressure management | Used humour and ownership in tough moments | Lowered stress for rookies and call-ups | Steadier play in late-season stretches |
| Human connection | Maintained ties with former teammates | Modelled respect beyond the rink | Sustained David Savard legacy across teams |
Organizational respect: Jeff Gorton, Kent Hughes, and a people-first approach
David Savard talked about building trust in Montreal. He gave credit to Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes for their approach. They focused on people, not just wins.
He knew the NHL’s business side. Trades and changes are common. But the Canadiens’ team kept players in the loop. This helped him plan his retirement smoothly.
Jeff Gorton set clear goals, and Kent Hughes followed up. Savard said this made tough decisions easier. It shaped his last months with the team.
This approach was felt on and off the ice. Players were valued, not just used. It made his decision to stay until the end right for him and his family.
Moments and miscellany: Stu’s interview notes, Habs threads, and local colour
Stu Cowan’s notebook showed a calm pace. David Savard and Valérie Lachance talked about routine and family. They said staying in Montreal was key.
Stu’s sit-down: 20-minute conversation highlights
They discussed the shift from game nights to school nights. They talked about the calm after games and the joy of being there for their kids. They found value in simple routines.
They linked small actions to big impacts. A visit or a clinic can change a community.
From four nations face off chatter to canadiens – islanders buzz
Their conversation coincided with the four nations face off talk. Back home, the Canadiens – Islanders game was all over the airwaves.
The playoff push kept their focus sharp. It also kept their connection to the team alive, even as they moved on to new goals.
Community touchpoints: green spot montreal, impact montreal, and fan culture
They mentioned places like Green Spot Montreal, where a late burger is a tradition. The wider scene, including Impact Montreal games, completes a weekend.
These touchpoints make Montreal feel like a village. Faces and stories blend, and support is strong.
Pop-culture side notes fans search for: rick springfield kids, distribution de the good wife, inside out
Fan feeds are fast, covering everything from Rick Springfield kids trivia to The Good Wife updates. Even Pixar’s Inside Out comes up in discussions about change.
Amidst all this, their message is clear: keep it simple, show up, and let community guide you.
Health, pride, and what comes next
After a long career in David Savard hockey, he shares a health update. He talks calmly about his future, thinking about family, routine, and community ties.
Body feeling “better” post-season, managing long-career bumps
He says his body is better than in mid-season, but years of hockey take a toll. He plans to move well, rest smart, and get back to normal. It’s a practical approach, learned from David Savard hockey.
Proud of influence on teammates and the fanbase
He’s most proud of the people he’s helped, not just his stats. Young players and old teammates from Columbus and Tampa have been inspired by him. Valérie Lachance notes his team-first attitude, which earned him trust from fans and peers.
Staying in Montreal to keep giving back with the Foundation
The family is staying in Montreal, enjoying life in the community. They work with the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation, helping others through the 25th anniversary and beyond.
His next chapter combines service and sport. He’ll be involved in community programs, rink days, and events. It’s a lasting legacy of David Savard hockey.
Conclusion
David Savard has grown from a steady NHL defenceman to a leader in the community. He works with Valérie Lachance at the Montreal Canadiens Foundation. Together, they bring family values and a calm purpose to their work.
They keep their roots in Quebec City while staying close to CanadiensMontreal fans. Their goal is to help kids move, play, and thrive.
As new spokespeople, they aim to highlight the Foundation’s 25th-anniversary achievements. They’ve invested $54.4 million and built 15 Bleu Blanc Bouge rinks. They also reach over 4 million children through about 1,000 organizations.
This shows their trust in a people-first approach. They believe sport can change daily life.
His journey also includes his time as a team leader. He mentored players like Lane Hutson and supported a respectful front office. Health and family were always at the core of his work.
This is how David Savard, known as dave savard, keeps the spirit of the Montreal Canadiens alive. The Foundation is expanding its reach.
The message is simple and strong. Stay present, give back, and build what lasts. For CanadiensMontreal fans, it means seeing a champion of small moments become a builder of big ones.