Henrik Lundqvist Talks Charity Work

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New York Rangers and the national team's goalie Henrik Lundqvist is laureate when Victoria Scholarship awarded for the 38th time in succession - he is the only fifth hockey player to receive the award.

- Of course it is very flattering and fun. Obviously, I checked the list of past winners and it's a nice crowd, saying "Henke".

- There is a special price. Partly for its history, and for anyone who shares it.


Lundqvist has made eleven seasons with the Rangers and he has five more years left on the contract. 34-year-old has had a remarkable career so far (see box). He was appointed to the entire NHL's best goalie in 2012 and subscribed to the price which the Rangers most valuable player between 2007-2013. This year, however, the stop for the team is already in the first playoff round.

- It went up and down. We had high expectations but did not like the smoothness needed. But above all, we came across a very good team, Pittsburgh, who then won the Stanley Cup. It was disappointing the way it ended. Now the goal is to do even better next season. And win.

His sporting accolades are well known in Sweden. Less known are the recognitions he received in the United States for their efforts outside of hockey. Through its own Henrik Lundqvist Foundation and other organizations he has helped to attract attention and raise money for sick children, for their treatment and opportunities to be cared for at home with their families. He has done the same with school construction and improved education for children in poor parts of the Dominican Republic.

- There has been growing at a. When I came over to the US I was impressed by the people who put a lot of time, dedication and money to help others in New York. It was contagious. Then I had some experiences in Gothenburg before I went over there I felt that ... it went into the heart, somehow. You saw what different organizations did, saying "Henke", which also supports projects in previous hometown Gothenburg.

- The focus is on children, both physically and within the school grounds. I think it's fun to try to use the position I have, my name and the contacts I have in New York, to do good things.

Last year he was one of three players nominated for the NHL Foundation Award for his charity work. He was also one of four nominated as leading US television sports channel ESPN chose four athletes from the United States - and all its sports - the price Sports Humanitarian Award.

- It's just fun that people appreciate what you do. In a situation where you will be appreciated for charity work, the first thing you think of that attention may be drawn to the activity you are doing. Then to obtain the recognition is not nearly as important. But every time you get into a situation where you can spread what you do and get people on the train, so it takes occasions the opportunity to communicate what you are doing. There they have a pretty good role as a sportsman, when appearing in the media a lot.