DAV Chapter 73 and Uncommon Grit SEAL Foundation join the Erie Otters in a season-long collaboration built around service, recognition, and community impact. Together, they will present the Otters' Hometown Hero program throughout the 2026-27 season, creating a meaningful spotlight for the people who serve our community.
At each of the Otters' 34 regular-season home games, one Hometown Hero will be recognized during a special in-arena presentation. Each honoree will receive a personalized Erie Otters jersey bearing their chosen name and number, signed by an Otters player and presented on game day. Their stories will continue online through collaborative social features after every home game.
The partnership will also extend to Military Appreciation Night, where DAV and Uncommon Grit will help the Otters recognize the military community and connect fans to both organizations' missions. Planned elements include military warmup jerseys, a charity jersey auction, community storytelling, and opportunities to generate support for their work. Final event details will be announced with the Otters' promotional schedule.
DAV is a nonprofit that provides a lifetime of support for veterans of all generations, their families, and survivors. Its no-cost services help veterans access earned benefits and health care, connect with employment opportunities, and ensure their voices are represented. Erie County Chapter 73 carries that mission into the local community.
Learn about DAVUncommon Grit SEAL Foundation removes barriers to healing, stability, and connection for military members, veterans, first responders, and their families. The SEAL-founded nonprofit supports well-being and recovery, safety and daily stability, and renewed belonging and purpose.
Learn about Uncommon GritHometown Hero presenting partnership
One community honoree at all 34 regular-season home games
Personalized, player-signed jersey for every honoree
Military Appreciation Night collaboration
Season-long community storytelling
The partnership gives Otters fans a game-night platform to recognize local service and learn how two nonprofit organizations support veterans, first responders, and their families.
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