Hockey Canada Game Change

Welcome to Game Change - an initiative by Hockey Canada which aims to celebrate community-driven successes, drive transformative growth at the grassroots level, connecting new audiences and welcoming returning participants.

Game Change is designed to empower local hockey associations with the tools, resources, and support they need to grow their membership and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for players of all backgrounds. By spotlighting innovative approaches and providing valuable resources, Game Change equips associations to overcome challenges, attract new players, and engage returning participants in meaningful ways.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, we will spotlight three Game Change initiatives (dates subject to adjustment):

• January: IIHF Try Hockey Pilots and the HEO Pilot
• February: OMHA Learn to Skate Program
• March: Capital Region Female Hockey Association

Game Change overview:

• 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, Members, 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.
• 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.
• Game Change is more than a series of programs—it’s a nationwide movement to reshape hockey from the ground up. By focusing on grassroots initiatives and celebrating community-driven successes, Game Change helps ensure the sport evolves to meet the needs of today’s players and their families. This approach makes hockey a sport that can continue to thrive for future generations, enriched by the diversity, creativity, and passion of everyone involved.
• Game Change has set ambitious targets to expand its impact, including increased engagement across social media, website views, and newsletter subscriptions. Additionally, Game Change aims to see a tangible increase in grassroots program submissions, with local associations actively participating in and contributing to this transformative initiative.
• 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.

• The Focus on Inclusivity and Accessibility
• Why Game Change Matters
• Key Outcomes and Goals
• Join the Movement
• Newsletter Signup Allows LHAs and Canadians to stay updated on the latest Game Change initiatives and success stories, as well as allowing them to receive inspiring content, program highlights, resources, and exclusive updates directly in their inbox.

Visit Game Change by http://www.hockeycanada.ca/gamechange

We are confident that Game Change will have a meaningful impact nationwide. Together, we can further cultivate a culture where all Local Hockey Associations can share ideas, strengthen connections, and grow together.