Local businesses are having a positive impact on hockey at the grassroots level.
Through a new sponsorship program run by the Listowel Minor Hockey Association, financial assistance from area companies has been provided to the point where registration at the Mite level is basically free.
If players age five and under utilize their fundraising program then they play for no cost, and the executive has already seen positive results stem from this situation.
“With these funds we have increased our registration at the Mite level by more than 30 per cent, and this is what the game is all about – all kids having the opportunity to learn and enjoy the great game of hockey,” LMHA president Jeff Sippel said.
On Jan. 19 at Listowel Memorial Arena, the executive unveiled the sponsorship board recognizing the two levels of donors: organizational ­– $1,000 annually – and team sponsors, which goes for $500 per year.
Brad Buchanan, partner with Ward and Uptigrove, was in attendance representing one of the two organizational sponsors for the 09-10 season.
He said it was an easy decision to jump on board.
“The reason we got involved was we wanted to give the opportunity for more kids to play that, maybe financially can’t do it,” Buchanan said. “Hopefully by us helping here, we can get more kids involved in this great game.”
Brent Ravelle was also on hand representing Bustard Chrysler, the other organizational sponsor.
“Some of the biggest reasons why Bustard got involved was it’s a real grassroots initiative. It’s more community-involved, more kid-oriented,” Ravelle explained.
In addition to free Mite hockey, donations go towards skill development clinics, financial assistance for older players where needed, coaching clinics and equipment purchases.
To the players and executive, the 27 team sponsors listed on the board, as well as the website banner ads and non-business donations make a big difference as well.
“It’s huge what our sponsors are doing, we can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done,” Sippel said.
The plaque can be seen in the south stairwell from the lobby to the stands.