Redwater minor hockey seeks community support for Kruger Big Assist Grant

By Shelley Winger
Redwater Minor Hockey is reaching out to the community for support as it seeks to be
nominated for the Kruger Big Assist Grant, a program designed to make hockey more
accessible and affordable for children across Canada. The grant provides crucial funding to
help keep registration fees lower, support families who may face financial challenges, and
offer additional development opportunities for players without added costs.
Since 2021, the Kruger Big Assist program has awarded more than $1 million to over 55
hockey communities across the country. This year, the program is committing $200,000 in
funding, with five hockey associations receiving $25,000 each and one grand prize winner
receiving an additional $75,000. These funds are intended to offset the cost of enrollment
fees and to remove other barriers that may prevent children from participating in hockey,
ensuring that every child who wants to play has the opportunity to do so.
Nominations can be submitted by anyone in the community, including players, parents,
coaches, volunteers, or other supporters who recognize the value of youth sports.
Nominations are evaluated based on how well the association reaches families in need,
inspires young players, supports the development of life skills, and promotes diversity and
inclusion within the community.
Redwater Minor Hockey hopes that community members will take a few moments to
submit a nomination, helping the association continue its efforts to make hockey accessible
to all children. The funding could provide financial assistance to families, allow the
association to offer more development programs, and support initiatives that encourage
participation from a wider range of children.
Beyond financial support, the grant can help strengthen the community by ensuring that
more children have the chance to experience hockey’s physical, social, and personal
benefits. Participation in sports helps youth develop teamwork, leadership, and resilience,
and creates opportunities for children to connect with their peers in a positive
environment.
By nominating Redwater Minor Hockey for the Kruger Big Assist Grant, community
members can play a direct role in supporting local families and ensuring that children in

Redwater can continue to enjoy Canada’s game. Nominations are accepted online through
the Kruger Big Assist website, and each submission brings the association one step closer to
receiving funding that could make a significant difference for young players and their
families.

Supporting Redwater Minor Hockey through this nomination is more than a chance to win a
grant—it is a way to invest in the next generation of players and in the future of the
community’s youth sports programs.