BREAKING NEWS: St. Louis Blues Former Ice Hockey Legend Bernie Federko Donates entire 105.4 million to Head Coach Jim Montgomery for new Hockey Stadium Project, he says the pride of St. Louis Blues Lives within him Wherever he goes Committed to Supporting the Future of St. Louis Blues Ice hockey with…

St. Louis Blues Former Ice Hockey Legend Bernie Federko Donates entire 105.4 million to Head Coach Jim Montgomery for new Hockey Stadium Project, he says the pride of St. Louis Blues Lives within him Wherever he goes Committed to Supporting the Future of St. Louis Blues Ice hockey with…

In a heartfelt and historic gesture that will be remembered for generations, St. Louis Blues Hall of Famer and beloved franchise icon Bernie Federko has announced the donation of his entire personal fortune—an astonishing $105.4 million—to current Blues head coach Jim Montgomery. The donation will help launch a brand-new hockey stadium and training complex, aimed at securing a bold, community-focused future for the Blues.

Federko, 69, made the announcement at a press conference held at Enterprise Center, where fans, team officials, and former teammates gathered to witness the momentous reveal.

“The pride of the St. Louis Blues lives within me wherever I go,” Federko said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “This organization gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. Now, I want to give something back that will carry the team and the city forward for decades.”

A Forever Blue Legacy

Federko has long been recognized as one of the most important figures in Blues history. A skilled playmaker and a natural leader, he spent 13 seasons with the Blues from 1976 to 1989, becoming the first player in NHL history to record 50 assists in 10 consecutive seasons. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002.

But beyond his on-ice achievements, Federko’s loyalty to St. Louis—his adopted hometown—has always set him apart. He remained in the city after retirement, became a local broadcaster, and regularly participated in community outreach and charity events.

Few knew the full extent of his financial success. Federko quietly invested in local businesses, real estate, and tech ventures throughout the Midwest, amassing a nine-figure fortune that he has now chosen to reinvest in the sport he loves.

“This donation is everything I have,” Federko said. “And I couldn’t think of a better place for it to go.”

A Vision for the Future

The funds will be directed toward a new multi-use hockey stadium and community complex designed to support the Blues organization, local youth leagues, and regional tournaments. The facility, which will bear Federko’s name, is planned to include advanced training technology, youth development centers, and a public skating arena.

Coach Jim Montgomery, who assumed the Blues’ head coaching role in 2023, was visibly moved during the announcement.

“I don’t have the words,” Montgomery said. “Bernie is not just a legend on the ice—he’s a legend in life. His gift isn’t just money—it’s hope, vision, and love for this city and this team. It’s now our responsibility to honor that gift by building something that lasts.”

Montgomery noted that planning for the new facility is already underway, with a groundbreaking ceremony tentatively expected in 2026. The arena is projected to open to the public by 2029.

Community Impact

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones praised Federko’s donation in a public statement, calling it “a once-in-a-generation moment of civic pride and personal generosity.”

“Bernie Federko has always represented the best of St. Louis,” she said. “This donation isn’t just about hockey—it’s about community, youth opportunity, and investing in a brighter future for our city.”

Fans across the city reacted with awe and gratitude. Within hours of the news breaking, social media was flooded with tributes to Federko, with hashtags like #ForeverBlue and #ThankYouBernie trending locally.

“I grew up watching Bernie with my dad,” said longtime fan Derrick Mallory. “He made me fall in love with the Blues. Today he made me cry all over again—for the best reasons.”

Still Giving Back

Despite his remarkable gift, Federko made it clear that he isn’t stepping away from the team or the game.

“I’ll still be around,” he said with a grin. “I want to see this place built. I want to skate with the kids. I want to shake hands with the future of Blues hockey.”

He ended the event with a simple message to Blues fans:

“We may come and go, but the Note—that lives on. And now, it has a new home to grow in.”