Tim Nichol poses with Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Getzlaf as he signs a giant poker chip that was given to Tim & Cathy's children.

For Tim and Cathy Nichol, it’s tough to put into words how amazing this past week has been.

The couple, who are also longtime Oilers fans, won a trip to the star-studded 2011 NHL Awards ceremony in Las Vegas courtesy of the Edmonton Oilers. Ecstatic with the unexpected win, the two jetted off to Vegas for the June 22 event where they joined the NHL’s elite at the Palms Hotel and Casino.

"Going to Vegas is exciting enough as it is but experiencing the NHL Awards in Vegas is on a whole other level," said Tim.

The two had the opportunity to meet some of the NHL’s biggest stars including commissioner of the National Hockey League, Gary Bettman and Team Canada member, Ryan Getzlaf. While enjoying the sunny Vegas weather at the pool, Tim even had the chance to brush shoulders with Oilers alumni, Doug Weight.

"I grew up playing hockey and watching guys like these play," Tim reminisced. "Having the players take the time to chat with me and take an interest in the conversation was hands-down the highlight of my trip."

Although the Nichol’s sons, Duncan and Connor, stayed behind in Edmonton they weren’t left out of the experience. Tim and Cathy returned home and presented the boys with a giant poker chip signed by all the players they had met during their stint in Las Vegas.

All in all, Tim and Cathy can only describe their NHL Awards experience in Las Vegas as "first class."

"We would like to express our sincere thanks to the Edmonton Oilers organization for sending us on a once in a lifetime event. The NHL awards were everything we could imagine and more."

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Author: Lauren Gilley | edmontonoilers.com