During Friday’s game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets, Marc Fogel, a former teacher from Oakmont who spent more than three years in a Russian prison, was recognized on the video board.

The presentation took place at the midpoint of the first period. Fogel wore a No. 71 Evgeni Malkin Penguins jersey and was given a jersey bearing the No. 25.

Oakmont native Marc Fogel, recently liberated from prison in Russia, is at tonight’s game: pic.twitter.com/MMepAch403

— Seth Rorabaugh (@SethRorabaugh) March 21, 2025

Fogel, 63, was initially imprisoned in August 2021 for allegedly carrying cannabis. He was released and returned to the United States on Feb. 11 following negotiations with Russia. After a stop at the White House and a reintegration program in San Antonio, Texas, he was back home Feb. 18.

Fogel has visibly represented his Western Pennsylvania roots since returning, wearing a Steelers winter cap when he landed on U.S. soil and holding an Iron City beer can while speaking at the White House.

“I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the Pittsburgh Penguins organization for their generous support — an extension of this amazing city’s warm, close-knit community that has rallied around our family during the toughest of times,” Fogel said in a statement released by the Penguins.

“The incredible kindness shown by the Pittsburgh sports teams, along with the tremendous help from our local media, community leaders, politicians, artists, academics, advocates and activists strengthened my mentality to keep on keepin’ on like a true Pittsburgher.

“There were many days when the only good news I received was about my beloved Penguins winning. Our family will be forever grateful to this great city and great country.”

The Penguins welcome Oakmont history teacher, Butler County native, and Penguins fan, Marc Fogel.

Welcome home Marc! pic.twitter.com/JAusmKLlhU

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) March 21, 2025

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