BUFFALO, N.Y. (November 7, 2012) --- The Buffalo Sabres today announced a new initiative that will bring together some of the franchise’s most legendary players to act as ambassadors for the team’s many charitable events and community programs. The group, known as the Rafters Club, will be made up of the former Sabres whose jerseys have been officially retired by the team: Gilbert Perreault, Rene Robert, Pat LaFontaine and Danny Gare.

“Our organization has always placed great emphasis on history and tradition,” said Buffalo Sabres President Ted Black. “In bringing these players back to serve as our team ambassadors, we’re hoping to further strengthen our connection to the team’s past while also finding ways to better our community. These guys carry enormous significance in this city and we know they’re going to do a lot of good.”

The Rafters Club, through group appearances and other planned events, will work closely with the Buffalo Sabres Alumni Association to draw attention to the many community initiatives the group is involved with throughout the year.

The first event featuring the Rafters Club will be the 9th Annual Sabres Alumni Wine Festival on Wednesday, Nov. 14 at First Niagara Center from 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. The event will feature wineries and restaurants from Buffalo, Niagara on the Lake and beyond, with all proceeds from the event benefiting the Breast Cancer Prevention and Education Bus. The bus, made possible through partnerships with the ECMC Lifeline Foundation, WNY Breast Health and First Niagara Bank, conveys two digital mammography machines to under-served and under-tested women in all areas of Western New York.