Squamish Minor Hockey Association (SMHA) has received funding support from the District of Squamish and Squamish Community Foundation with a $5,000 Community Enhancement Grant. The grant will offset SMHA’s annual ice rental fees at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
“With over 250 children and youth currently registered in our programs, ice rental fees represent our largest expense,” says Jeff Oldenborger, president of Squamish Minor Hockey Association. “This support from Squamish Community Foundation and the District of Squamish helps reduce our annual operating costs and ensure our hockey programs remain accessible for children and youth in our community.”
The grant is awarded as part of the District of Squamish Community Enhancement Grant 2022 funding cycle and is administered by the Squamish Community Foundation. “The connection between social interaction and mental well-being of children and youth has really been highlighted for us over the past two years,” says Karen Clarke, executive director with Squamish Community Foundation. “We recognize the role youth-based amateur sport plays in helping to build on that connection, while also supporting overall health and wellness through physical literacy.”
“The social bonding generated through friendly competition and community connection are important outcomes of amateur sport,” says Oldenborger. “Our kids were really missing this last season, when game play and spectators at the rink were both suspended due to COVID-19 restrictions. It’s been inspiring to see players bounce back with renewed enthusiasm and excitement for the game of hockey since these were re-introduced. It motivates and challenges them in a fun and animated environment. We know kids want to play more games and have more fun, and this grant helps us do that.”
Squamish Community Foundation executive director Karen Clarke joined Squamish Minor Hockey Association president Jeff Oldenborger, along with players and coaches from the Squamish Eagles U9 Division at Brennan Park Recreation Centre to present a cheque in the amount of $5,000.
