The Vancouver Canucks will be playing a part in growing the hockey scene in Hazelton.
They’ve donated hockey equipment to guarantee 15 kids in the initiation and novice age groups that are new to hockey get on the ice this season.
President of the Hazelton Minor Hockey Association Ryneld Starr says it’s a huge help.
“Even for some people just getting the most basic equipment can be a stretch. So hopefully we can eliminate that barrier for them,” says Starr. “Hopefully it spurs someone that otherwise wouldn’t have put their child in hockey signs them up – we offer the opportunity to as many kids as possible.”
The donated items will be nearly a full set of gear in different sizes including things like pads, bags, jerseys, socks and a stick.
Typically, parents can be on the hook for around $300 plus to fit their kids with the right gear for the game.
Starr says the Canucks will be in town next month for a novice tournament to celebrate the love of hockey in the Hazeltons.
He says registrations were affected by the loss of the arena’s roof a few years ago, and hopes this will boost registration numbers.
They’re still waiting on the news for federal funding for a new arena.
The same as the past few years, Starr says they’ll keep their sticks on the ice regardless.
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