Sabres help launch scholarship fund in memory of Steve Montador

The Buffalo Sabres today announced the team would be taking part in launching a scholarship fund in memory of former Sabres player and nine-year NHL veteran Steve Montador, who passed away suddenly in February at the age of 35. The Steve Montador "Dream Big" Scholarship Fund has been formed with an initial $10,000 donation furnished by the Sabres, the Buffalo Sabres Foundation, the Buffalo Sabres Alumni Association, current Sabres players and former Sabres managing partner/minority owner Larry Quinn.

The "Dream Big" moniker stems from a favorite phrase of Montador's, one that he used when signing autographs for fans. The phrase's message will be used as a guide in shaping the direction of the scholarship fund, which will be overseen by a board that includes Montador's father, Paul.

"Steve had such an uplifting personality, always trying to help others around him and encourage them to achieve their best," Paul Montador said. "This fund is the exact way Steve would want to be remembered, as a way to support people and inspire them to achieve their dreams. I am very grateful that the Sabres have gotten the ball rolling in terms of fundraising, and we know this is just the beginning of a tremendous program that will honor Steve's legacy by helping others."

More specific details of the scholarship fund, as well as the naming of additional board members, are still in the planning stages and will be announced soon. Donations to the scholarship fund can be made at Sabres.com/dreambig.

Montador played two seasons with the Sabres, in 2009-10 and 2010-11. During his nine-year NHL career, he also played for the Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks.