The Samuelis double down on commitment

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread throughout the world, it can be difficult to recognize hope and goodness. The unemployment rate continues to rise and people are struggling to survive as this escalates to new heights with each passing day. No one can predict how long most people will be required to stay home or public events will be postponed, which can be a huge burden for those who work in industries such as sports, entertainment, and hospitality, among others.

Anaheim Ducks owners Henry and Susan Samueli continued their trek to set a high bar when it comes to caring for those most affected. The Samuelis announced Thursday that they would extend their original agreement with their workers through the end of June, three more months than previously promised. This would see to it that 2,100 part-time staff members will be paid for any rescheduled, postponed, or canceled events.

According to the Anaheim Ducks press release, this decision “includes all programs and events at Honda Center as well as each of the nine ice and inline sports facilities, the San Diego Gulls, and JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery.” This is a huge win for the employees and their families and a big decision for the organization. While other sports teams have employees waiting in limbo as more events continue to get closer, the Samuelis are leading by example; caring for those who are drastically affected by the changes in the industry.

With small-market teams, it’s often easy to get frustrated with ownership and how they choose to spend (or not spend) their money, but it’s never difficult to get behind an organization that cares about its people and the community that they are part of. All sports teams have community events and invest in the city in some capacity, but for the Anaheim Ducks, the Samuelis are leading the charge and making the tough decisions with kindness first instead of worrying about their bottom line.

It’s a great day to be a Ducks fan.