Dominick Critelli has become somewhat synonymous with the NHL in recent years. The 105-year-old World War II veteran previously went viral for his enchanting performance ahead of a New York Islanders vs. New York Rangers game. In that performance, Critelli produced a breathtaking rendition of the national anthem on his saxophone.
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"What this country has done for me, no other country in the world could do — and I mean that," Dominick Critelli recently told The New York Post. "I love the USA, and I wouldn't change it."
Critelli first captured our hearts in December 2025. A video of him playing his version of the national anthem went viral. Just months later, Critelli was back on the ice, ahead of the Islanders' season opener against the New Jersey Devils. However, rather than simply performing, Critelli was also honored while at the game.
"He did it again Saturday night, uniting Islanders and New Jersey fans at the game, when he was honored as the game veteran and given a jersey with the number 105 by Isles alum Butch Goring," The New York Post reports.
Fortunately for Critelli, this wasn't the first time he'd found himself as the center of attention. French President Emmanuel Macron knighted him.
Dominick Critelli Got To See the Islanders Secure a Big Win Over the Devils
There's no denying that Dominick Critelli's latest appearance at an Islanders' game will be one he cherishes. Not only was he honored by the team and those in attendance, but he also got to see them whoop the New Jersey Devils on opening night.
The Islanders secured a 6-0 victory over the Devils, giving themselves the best possible start to a new season. The game was scoreless throughout the first period. However, the Islanders finally broke through in the second, ending the period with three goals. Simon Holmstrom, Brayden Schenn, and Bo Horvat were all on the scoresheet.
Another three goals were to follow later in the game. As such, Critelli's latest public outing ended on a double high note. If anyone deserved to be present for that game, it was most certainly him.
