By Kate Swarbrick

The minute the Pujols Foundation families walked through the entryway of Scottrade Center, they immediately ran toward their friends at the PFF, offering hugs and details about their busy winter breaks. Soon enough, however, all talk turned to hockey. Nick McMullen revealed that he used to play goalie. David Kime demonstrated his great familiarity with the Blues, identifying the players by name, and Lauren Hennicke, expressed how she is huge sports fan who loves to watch the Blues games from home when she can’t attend.

The Pujols Family Foundation was able to kick off 2010 at the Blues game because GFI Digital president Bruce Gibbs invited PFF families to sit in GFI’s seats at the Blues game.

Before the game had even started, the PFF families were on their feet cheering for the Blues. Matt Smitherman cheered so loudly during warm-ups that he was given a puck by one of the players. Matt had a smile from ear to ear after receiving that special memento of his night with the Blues.

After a scoreless first period, the PFF families where treated to a snack and refreshments on the GFI bus. As they left the bus, the children were surprised with a great goodie bag filled with souvenirs, courtesy of the Blues.

During the third period, the PFF families got another special treat when they were recognized on the big screen as GFI’s guests for the evening. The kids got a kick out of seeing themselves on the big video board in the arena. The third period also brought the goal that allowed the Blues to defeat the Minnesota Wild.

All of the PFF families had a great time, thanks to GFI and the Blues. By the time the game ended, the kids had smiles on their faces and sleep in their eyes. And they had memories that would last a lifetime, especially for Nick McMullen who got to see his beloved Blues win their second game in a row at home!