Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hills helmet isnt just part of his gear its a canvas of tribute, identity and inspiration.
Each custom-painted mask Hill wears includes a small but powerful tribute: the initials MM30. The letters honor his former goalie coach Michael Maniago, who was killed by a drunk driver when Hill was just 11 years old.
Hill sat down with Taylor Rocha to explain more about the artwork and tribute on his helmets. Golden Knights goalie Adin Hill honors late mentor with custom helmet tribute
Every mask since I was 12 has had that tribute, Hill said. Its just a little reminder not to take every day for granted.
Maniago was just 20 when he died, but his impact on Hills life remains profound.
He was such a nice, hardworking guy a good family guy, Hill said. He had a bright future in hockey, too.
Hill recalls battling in goalie drills with Maniago, including a favorite game called rebound.
Whether he scored or I made the save, we were just laughing and having a good time, Hill said. He always emphasized hard work, and I really enjoyed that.
Beyond the tribute, Hills helmet often reflects his personality and surroundings. This years design nods to Vegass desert setting with cowboy imagery and a vintage feel.
We gave the cowboys swords instead of guns to keep the Knights theme, Hill said. Its kind of old Western, simple, but fun.
Hill said he brainstorms ideas during the offseason and works closely with a painter hes known since he was 18. His dad has even helped design a few.
I usually give two or three things I want bold on the mask, and the painter brings it to life, Hill said.
As for pregame routines, Hill keeps it simple: a nitro cold brew from Starbucks, pasta and salad before the puck drops, and no naps.
If I nap for two hours, Im not sleeping at night, he laughed.
Now in his third season with Vegas, Hill still finds meaning in the small MM30 etched on every mask.
Its cool knowing its there, he said. Im sure hed be happy to see where Ive gone.
