Minnesota Wild forward Marcus Foligno has been awarded the 2025-26 King Clancy Memorial Trophy, recognizing his exemplary leadership and significant humanitarian contributions. The NHL announced the award on Thursday, which comes with a $25,000 donation to a foundation of the recipient's choice. For Foligno, this donation will go to the Janis Foligno Foundation.
The presentation of the trophy itself was marked by an unexpected reveal. Foligno, under the impression he was touring the Masonic Cancer Center in Minneapolis with his family, was instead met by his brother, Nick Foligno, who presented him with the award. This surprise occurred as Foligno was engaged in activities related to cancer research support, an area deeply personal to him.
Community Impact and Personal Dedication
The King Clancy Memorial Trophy is presented annually to the player who "best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community." Foligno's efforts have been particularly focused on breast cancer research and support, a cause he championed in honor of his late mother, Janis Foligno, who passed away from the disease in 2009.
Read More: NBA Reviews Fan Taunts at Jalen Brunson During Finals Game 1
Together with his brother Nick, Marcus initiated the Foligno Face-Off. This initiative, a collaboration involving the NHL, the NHLPA, the Wild, the Chicago Blackhawks, and the V Foundation for Cancer Research, successfully raised funds for breast cancer research. Foligno has also dedicated his time as a Hockey Fights Cancer Champion, meeting with patients and survivors, and offering encouragement. His broader community involvement includes work with organizations such as Children’s Hospital Minnesota, Minnesota Sled Hockey, the Hendrickson Foundation, Children’s Cancer Research Fund, and the American Cancer Society.
A Season of Service
Foligno, 34, recently concluded his 15th NHL season, his ninth with the Minnesota Wild. His previous NHL experience includes six years with the Buffalo Sabres. This award marks a significant recognition of his commitment beyond the ice, underscoring a season defined by both athletic performance and profound community engagement.
Read More: NHL Offer Sheets: What Happens When Teams Sign Other Players?
Previous recipients of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy from the Minnesota Wild include defenseman Matt Dumba (2020) and forward Jason Zucker (2019).
