LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The connection between the tragedy of October 1, 2017 and the then brand new NHL franchise, the Vegas Golden Knights, remains strong.

One player in particular has found the right words and actions to honor that bond.

“How are you, guys?” Deryk Engelland greeted fans Tuesday afternoon at Inscriptagraphs in Tivoli Village. “Nice to meet you.”

Engelland, who committed to spending time in the community every Oct. 1, signed memorabilia.

“You certainly won’t forget this day,” Engelland said. “I think a lot was said that year by everyone, not just the Knights – we’ll never forget it.”

Seven years ago, Engelland welcomed a grieving city to T-Mobile Arena for the Golden Knights’ inaugural season, standing center ice just days after 58 people were killed in a mass shooting on the Strip.

“Like all of you, I am proud to call Las Vegas my home,” he said to the silent crowd. “To the families and friends of the victims, please know that we will do everything we can to help you and our city heal.”

To this day, that speech remains one of the most defining moments in VGK’s history.

“It was extremely nerve-wracking,” Engelland said. “Playing hockey was easy. You had to go there, that’s what you do. But speaking in front of people was not my best quality, you could say.”

Now that he has retired from the game, Engelland is still a big part of the organization. For example, proceeds from this signing will go to the Vegas Golden Knights Alumni Foundation, a nonprofit organization that gives money to small charities doing big things in Southern Nevada.

“We are trying to raise money for certain pillars,” he explained. “First responders are very important to me, so that is definitely something we do.”

Steve Barnes’ brother was shot twice that night. Although he recovered, Barnes said it was the team’s response to One October that made him a lifelong fan.

“They gave us a sign of hope, something to believe in,” Barnes said. “Something to be excited about in the face of tragedy.”

“It was just a way for us to come together,” Amber Daluz added. “Something to cheer and advocate for in a positive way.”

Engelland’s commitment is still as important today as it was seven years ago.

“I feel like I was part of the community, so it really hit home when that happened,” Engelland said. “To be able to say these words and continue to help those affected seven years later means a lot to me and my family.”