Game Change: Transforming the Future of Hockey at the Grassroots Level

Game Change is an impactful initiative by Hockey Canada, designed to drive meaningful, sustainable change in the sport of hockey, with a focus on growth, inclusivity, and accessibility. At its core, Game Change is a movement to redefine the hockey experience, making it more welcoming and exciting for all participants—whether they’re new to the game, returning, or long-time players.

Here’s a closer look at how Game Change is making this vision a reality:

Mission and Purpose

Game Change aims to transform hockey at the grassroots level by supporting Local Hockey Associations (LHAs) with resources, showcasing best practices, and celebrating innovative programs. Its mission is to grow the sport by attracting diverse new audiences and encouraging players to continue their journey in hockey. By creating a more inclusive environment, Game Change ensures hockey becomes a sport where everyone feels welcome, connected, and inspired to participate.

How Game Change Supports Growth

Game Change is designed to empower local associations and hockey communities by providing access to the strategies, tools, and visibility they need to attract and retain members. This support takes many forms:

Showcasing Successful Programs

Game Change highlights successful programs and innovative approaches that have proven to increase participation and engagement in minor hockey. By sharing these inspiring stories, Game Change offers a roadmap for other associations to replicate similar successes, adapting them to fit their own unique communities.

Resources for Implementation

Marketing and Visibility Boost

Game Change amplifies the stories of local programs through a digital content series, social media, newsletters, and more. By celebrating local initiatives on a national platform, Game Change raises the profile of participating LHAs, building their credibility and inspiring others to join.

The Focus on Inclusivity and Accessibility

One of Game Change’s primary goals is to make hockey more inclusive and accessible to people from all backgrounds. Through strategic collaborations and innovative programming, Game Change addresses barriers to entry—whether cultural, financial, or geographic—and promotes a hockey culture that is welcoming and diverse. This commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens hockey as a sport but also builds a sense of community and belonging for all participants.

Why Game Change Matters

Key Outcomes and Goals

Join the Movement

Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, or part of a local hockey association, Game Change invites you to be part of this exciting evolution. Explore the initiatives, connect with other hockey communities, and help us create a sport that celebrates every player and every community. Together, we can truly change the game for the better.

A Game Change initiative is a program or effort designed to create positive, sustainable change within the world of grassroots hockey. These initiatives are driven by Local Hockey Associations (LHAs), community groups, or individual members who are working to make hockey more inclusive, accessible, and engaging for a broader range of participants.

Game Change initiatives can take many forms, such as:

New Player Programs: Initiatives that introduce hockey to beginners, often targeting underrepresented groups to make the sport more inclusive.

Innovative Training and Development: Programs focused on skill-building, mentorship, or unique approaches to player development that enhance the experience for young athletes.

Community Engagement and Inclusion Efforts: Initiatives that promote diversity, equality, and belonging, making hockey a welcoming space for all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Best Practice Sharing and Collaboration: Platforms or programs that facilitate the exchange of successful strategies and resources among associations to improve participation and retention.

Each Game Change initiative is highlighted to showcase its impact on the community, providing a model that other associations can learn from or replicate. By celebrating these programs, Hockey Canada’s Game Change initiative is helping to build a stronger, more inclusive hockey culture across the country.

A Game Changer is an individual, program, or group within the hockey community that drives impactful change, helping to shape a more inclusive, accessible, and positive environment in the sport. Game Changers are those who take innovative approaches to improve the hockey experience, breaking down barriers, fostering diversity, and inspiring others through their dedication and vision.

Game Changers can be:

Coaches who prioritize inclusivity, focusing on mentorship and personal growth for players of all backgrounds.

Volunteers who tirelessly work to make hockey accessible for more families in their community.

Players who embody sportsmanship, inclusion, and community spirit, setting an example for their peers.

Programs that introduce hockey to new audiences or create supportive spaces for underrepresented groups.

Through their actions, Game Changers help hockey evolve, creating a sport that is welcoming, vibrant, and reflective of Canada’s diverse communities.