Grassroots Hockey Program Inspires Kingston’s Next Generation
Kingston’s Grassroots Hockey Program, presented by Scotiabank, is a partnership between the Hockey Diversity Alliance, BGC South East, the Kingston Area Minor Hockey Association, the City of Kingston, and the Kingston Frontenacs, with support from dedicated community partners. Together, we’re working to open the doors of hockey to a wider and more diverse group of young athletes across Kingston.
This program provides children from underrepresented communities the opportunity to experience hockey completely free of charge. From supplying full equipment to offering weekly on-ice instruction, the program removes financial and accessibility barriers that often stand in the way. The result is a welcoming, inclusive environment where kids can learn the game, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging in the hockey community.
Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of skating and hockey in a fun, welcoming, and supportive environment. Sessions are divided into two age groups—children aged 6–9 and 10–12—with each group receiving 50 minutes of ice time each week. This structure ensures that all participants benefit from tailored instruction that matches their age and skill level while helping them gain confidence and build a deeper love for the game.
“The community support has been amazing, and it’s great to see so many people share our goal of growing the game in Kingston,” said Colton Robb of the Kingston Frontenacs. “We’re excited to continue giving more kids the chance to experience hockey.”
The Grassroots Hockey Program is about more than just developing young athletes—it’s about building community, embracing diversity, and creating opportunities for all kids to dream big.
To support this initiative and help more children experience the game, donations and sponsorship are welcome. Contact Colton Robb at [email protected] for more details.
Together, we’re growing the game—and a stronger, more inclusive future for hockey.
PROUD SUPPORTERS
ABOUT THE KINGSTON FRONTENACS
The Kingston Frontenacs Hockey Club strives to provide their players, fans and the city of Kingston with the best sports and entertainment in the Ontario Hockey League. The team’s goal is to strengthen their community, while assisting to develop premier athletes into exceptional people on and off the ice.
The Kingston Frontenacs are a junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League, based in Kingston, Ontario. The Frontenacs play their home games at the Slush Puppie Place, which is located at 1 The Tragically Hip Way, Kingston, Ontario.
The franchise was founded in 1973–74, then known as the Kingston Canadians. The team was renamed the Kingston Frontenacs in 1989.
ABOUT THE HOCKEY DIVERSITY ALLIANCE
The Hockey Diversity Alliance was formed by NHL players of colour who saw an immediate need to organize and create a platform to eradicate racism and promote diversity at all levels in hockey. Committed to inspiring a new and diverse generation of hockey players and fans, the HDA works to improve accessibility at community levels while educating and encouraging accountability from leagues and leaders through anti-racism and unconscious bias education.
The HDA runs grassroots ice & ball hockey programs across the GTA that welcome marginalized youth from underserved communities. All HDA programs are entirely free of cost for youth and eliminate all barriers to entry surrounding the game. Not only do HDA programs aim to provide opportunities for diverse youth to achieve their potential through sports, but their programs also provide support services, community engagement, and job opportunities for the communities they serve.
Website: www.hockeydiversityalliance.org
ABOUT THE BGC SOUTH EAST
The BGC South East opened in 1993 in partnership with the Rotary Club of Kingston. Their mission is to provide a safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life. The BGC South East served over 4,000 children and youth in 2021-22 and is continuing to see that number grow.
Website: www.bgcsoutheast.ca
ABOUT THE CITY OF KINGSTON
The City of Kingston – Municipal Government is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and thriving community for everyone who calls Kingston home. They are focused on delivering reliable services, supporting local initiatives, and fostering a city that is sustainable, innovative, and connected. Follow along for updates, announcements, and ways to take part in shaping Kingston’s future at www.cityofkingston.ca.