The surprise donation was revealed following a special NHL/NHLPA Learn to Play session hosted in partnership with the Detroit Red Wings. The event brought together members of the inaugural Ram’s Little Wings Learn to Play program, local families, Red Wings alumni Jason Woolley and special guests from the community for an on-ice experience designed to welcome more youth to the game and help support a sustainable hockey future at Cedar Rock Sportsplex.
The Zamboni donation is supported by the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund (IGF), which was created to support and accelerate NHL and Club business initiatives and projects that promote long-term fan development, increase participation at all levels of hockey with an emphasis on youth, and bring hockey to communities across North America.
“Moments like this are what the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund is all about -- working with Clubs, communities and local partners to create meaningful pathways into hockey and ensure those opportunities can continue long after a single event,” said Rob Knesaurek, NHL Senior Vice President, Youth Development and Industry Growth. “Cedar Rock Sportsplex has become an important gathering place for this community, and through this donation, we are proud to support the rink’s ability to serve young players and families for years to come."
“Cedar Rock Sportsplex represents the kind of community rink where young players get a chance to fall in love with the game of hockey,” said Chris Campoli, NHLPA Divisional Player Rep. Through the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund, and in partnership with the Detroit Red Wings, we are proud to provide this donation to keep the Cedar Rock Sportsplex thriving and serving the hockey community in Western Michigan.”
As part of the event, participants took part in a Learn to Play clinic designed to introduce new players to the fundamentals of hockey in a fun, supportive and welcoming environment. The programming reflects the ongoing commitment of the NHL, NHLPA and Detroit Red Wings to reduce barriers to participation, strengthen local hockey infrastructure and inspire the next generation of players and fans.
