The goal of Learn, Play, Score is to increase access to hockey for Detroit's youth and empower them by boosting confidence and character, promoting positive values and imparting enduring life skills. Through this initiative, Jack Adams Memorial Arena, Clark Park and East Side Hockey Ice Arena will each receive $20,000 to enhance programming or make facility improvements as they continue safely reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This significant donation represents a continuation of our intentional commitment to support and grow the hockey ecosystem in Detroit," said Red Wings director of community impact Kevin Brown as the donation announcement was made during the Red Wings' Virtual NHL Draft Party on Tuesday night. "Even during the pandemic, we remain focused on creating opportunities to grow the game of hockey, and these three rinks - all located within the city limits - are central to that effort.
"Our partnership with Labatt further shows the ways we can all work together toward a goal of reigniting a passion for hockey in the city. They share our community-driven mission and are equally as passionate about providing equitable access to the great game of hockey in Detroit."
Anthony Benavides, director of the Clark Park Coalition, said he's excited to safely welcome hockey players back to the rink.
"This donation from the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and Labatt will help the Clark Park Coalition engage more Detroiters in ice hockey and provide for a safe outdoor hockey experience," Benavides said. "We are extremely grateful for this support."
Brian Francis of the East Side Youth Sports Foundation echoed Benavides' excitement.
"The East Side Youth Sports Foundation would like to thank the Detroit Red Wings and Labatt for donating $20,000 to be allocated for building improvements at the ESH Ice Arena in Detroit," Francis said. "This investment will help us continue to keep our rink safe and efficient."
Keith Flournoy, Deputy Director, Detroit Parks & Recreation, said his organization appreciates the opportunity to continue its mission to increase youth athletic participation in the city of Detroit.
"Detroit Parks & Recreation is excited to receive this donation to enhance our facilities and prepare to return to active programming at Jack Adams Arena," Flournoy said. "We are thankful for the continued support of the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and Labatt's community-driven mission to provide equitable access to hockey for everyone in Detroit."
Learn, Play, Score is funded through a $1 million investment in partnership with the Red Wings, the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund to grow and expand access to hockey across Detroit. To learn more about the program, visit
DetroitRedWings.com/LearnPlayScore
.
