Former NY Islanders winger Matt Moulson is the inspiration for new children's book

Few expected former New York Islanders winger Matt Moulson to become a three-time 30-goal scorer when the Isles signed him in 2009. It took hard work, determination, passion, and even grit. That work ethic led to an improbable journey, and unlikely success in the NHL that has now turned into a story to inspire others in the next chapter in his life.

Having retired after the 2017-18 season, the 40-year-old is on to finding new passions and interests, whether that be filling in as an MSG Networks analyst or being the center of a new children's book inspired by his own life story. The book, "MattyMo's Grit Pile," is the first in a series of books published by Grit Pile Kidz, a children's book publisher.

“The story brings to life how I discovered my passion and the grit it took to accomplish my dreams,” said Moulson in a press release. “It’s all symbolized by a ‘Grit Pile,’ which is a collection of your hard work, accomplishments, failures, and most importantly, the lessons you have learned through these experiences.”

Moulson hasn't stayed far from the ice in retirement, running a coaching and mentoring program called The Moulson Mindset aimed at helping athletes reach their full potential.

Moulson's career was certainly a byproduct of that. After being drafted in the 9th round of the 2003 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, Moulson played 29 games with the LA Kings over two seasons before Garth Snow signed him as a free agent.

Playing alongside John Tavares, he scored 30 goals in his first season on Long Island and proved it wasn't a fluke with 30 more the next season and a career-best 36 the season after that. The fan favorite was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in 2013 in a deal for Thomas Vanek and was later moved to the Minnesota Wild at the trade deadline. In free agency, he signed a lucrative five-year contract to return to the Sabres, where he finished his career.

The book, due out on Aug. 20th is authored by “Coach” Greg Presseau and illustrated by Anika Charron. It is available for pre-order at gritpilekidz.com.