| We know that everyone involved in sanctioned hockey in B.C. and Yukon - every local member association, hockey academy, and league - is doing a great job celebrating local successes, driving transformative growth at the grassroots level, connecting new audiences and welcoming returning participants. In fact, the rapid growth in B.C. and Yukon in all categories (players, coaches, officials, administrators and other volunteers) has taken us to record participation levels over the past few years. In short, our members are doing amazing things. We are proud of how we deliver our game, and we are pleased to see these efforts now supported by a new initiative from Hockey Canada. Game Change is an initiative by Hockey Canada which aims to help all of us, and minor hockey associations in particular, with these efforts. Game Change is designed to empower minor 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 can equip associations to better overcome challenges, attract new players, and engage returning participants in meaningful ways. One aspect will be the spotlighting of those who have made exceptional gains in driving growth in our game. Among those who will be recognized during the 2024-25 season is one of our very own members: Capital Region Female Hockey Association. Watch for this in March. Some further information on this initiative is below, including a link to the Hockey Canada Game Change page, where you can access information and resources, and sign up for newsletters and updates. Overview Game Change programs are those designed to create positive, sustainable change within the world of grassroots hockey. These initiatives are driven by Minor 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. A 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 · 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. Key Outcomes and Goals · 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 minor associations actively participating in and contributing to this transformative initiative. Join the Movement · Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, or part of a minor 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. Newsletter Signup · Allows MHAs 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 clicking HERE. We are pleased that Hockey Canada has launched this initiative, and confident that Game Change can have a meaningful impact nationwide. It helps us to all work together, and further cultivate a culture where Minor Hockey Associations can share ideas, strengthen connections, and grow. | 
