Vancouver Canucks-sponsored program provides after-school hockey for Surrey students

A new after-school hockey program sponsored by the Vancouver Canucks is set to launch at six Surrey schools, providing new opportunities for dozens of students to take part in meaningful community-building activities.

Set to kick off the week of Nov. 13, the Canucks Community Ball Hockey Program will see groups of 20-25 students get together after school once a week to play ball hockey.

The program came to fruition following a $40,000 donation by Canucks for Kids, which was secured by the Surrey School District's Advancement Office.

“We’re really grateful for this funding,” said James Speidel, assistant manager for Community-Schools Partnership. “While we have several sports programs in the district featuring soccer and basketball, being able to offer a ball hockey program will create even more sporting options for students to have access to and enjoy.”

In addition to providing after-school sports and activities for elementary students, secondary students will provide mentorship by helping run the sessions, and gain leadership skills in the process.

“The idea is to have trained senior students in Grades 10 to 12 acting as co-leads alongside our outreach workers,” said Speidel.

The six elementary schools that will be taking part are Ray Shepherd, David Brankin, A.H.P. Matthew, Cindrich, Prince Charles and Strawberry Hill. All six schools will also be taking part in program-wide tournaments throughout the year.

“It really helps build community connections and students get chance to meet other youth in the district in a fun and structured environment,” explained Speidel.

The program will continue until the end of the school year in June and will serve around 150 students.