On Monday, October 3, the Niagara University Department of Athletics and the Purple Eagles hockey team hosted the third annual Hockey Face-Off Dinner at the Niagara Falls Country Club in Lewiston, N.Y.

PHOTOS: Third Annual Niagara Hockey Face-Off Dinner

VIDEO: Remarks from Burkholder, Olczyk, and Rev. Maher, C.M.

Niagara director of athletics Simon Gray and head hockey coach David Burkholder opened the evening's program, followed by a keynote speech by NBC lead hockey analyst and 16-season National Hockey League (NHL) veteran Eddie Olczyk. Olczyk's son, Eddie, was an assistant coach for the Purple Eagles during the 2015-16 season, and during his NHL career, Olczyk played with Niagara assistant coach Ethan Moreau with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 1998-99 season. Closing remarks were offered by Niagara University president Rev. James J. Maher, C.M.

The Purple Eagles hockey team kicks off the 2016-17 regular season on home ice Friday night. Niagara hosts the Holy Cross Crusaders for games on both Oct. 7 and 8 starting at 7:05 p.m. For ticket information, please contact the Niagara University Ticket Office at (716) 286-TIXX (8499), email tickets@niagara.edu, visit www.PurpleEagles.com/Tickets, or stop by the ticket office at Dwyer Arena. 

Stay connected with the Purple Eagles through social media. Follow Niagara Athletics on Twitter @NUPurpleEagles and for hockey updates, follow @NiagaraUHockey. Check in with the Purple Eagles on Facebook/PurpleEagles and on Instagram @NUPurpleEagles.