Marine Tyler Bluder revived a Marine Corps hockey team in 2016 to reconnect veterans through the sport they love. Now, the team — made up of Marines, Navy Corpsmen, and active-duty service members from across the globe — heads into the season with deeper bonds and stronger support, thanks in part to Navy Federal Credit Union.
Earlier this year, the team was one of four selected from 200 applicants to compete in Navy Federal’s fifth annual Veterans Showcase, held alongside the 2025 NHL Stadium Series in Ohio. As NHL’s official Military Appreciation Partner, Navy Federal covered all expenses, giving the team a once-in-a-lifetime experience that included tournament play, a welcome reception, and attendance at the Stadium Series game.
Beyond the ice, the event created space for candid conversations around challenges like depression, unemployment, and health — leading the team to pursue nonprofit status to better support its members. With this new designation, they plan to expand tournament participation, revamp communications, and help more players cover costs.
For Bluder and his teammates, the Showcase wasn’t just about hockey — it was about healing, connection, and the enduring Marine spirit.
“We’re a family,” he says. “Once a Marine, always a Marine.”
Navy Federal’s support reflects its commitment to honoring military service through meaningful partnerships, says Retired Navy Capt. Keith Hoskins, who leads the credit union’s new Military Affairs and Strategic Partnerships unit. “We’re like-minded organizations. We share values of service, integrity, and community.”
This story was submitted by Allison Stevens, Senior Corporate Communications Strategist IV, Navy Federal Credit Union.
