Abilities Centre’s Post

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐇𝐋: 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐝𝐚'𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐰𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐲 Hockey isn't just a sport in Canada; it's a way of life. As the NHL trends across the nation, it highlights the deep-rooted passion Canadians have for this exhilarating game. In this post, we will explore the excitement surrounding the NHL season and its impact on Canadian culture. Unforgettable Moments: This season has been packed with thrilling games, unforgettable plays, and nail-biting finishes. Each game adds a new chapter to the rich history of hockey in Canada. Rising Stars: We are witnessing the rise of new talent, with young players showcasing their skills and making a mark on the league. The future of hockey looks brighter than ever. Community Impact: Beyond the ice, the NHL and its teams are making significant contributions to communities through various outreach programs and charitable initiatives. Cultural Significance: Hockey brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and national pride. It's a sport that transcends generations, creating lasting memories and lifelong fans. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: The NHL's popularity surge in Canada is more than just a trend; it's a reflection of our collective love for the game. From unforgettable moments and rising stars to community impact and cultural significance, hockey is embedded in the fabric of our society. Whether you are a lifelong fan or new to the sport, there's no better time to engage with the NHL and be part of this exhilarating journey. Let's continue to support our teams, celebrate their achievements, and keep the spirit of hockey alive in Canada. #NHL #HockeyCanada #PassionForHockey #Community #RisingStars #SportsCulture

Hockey in Canada: More Than a Sport, It’s a Religion 🇨🇦🏒 In Canada, hockey isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life. From frozen ponds to packed arenas, the sport brings together people from all walks of life, bonding communities across generations. 🏒 A National Passion For many Canadians, hockey begins in childhood, with early mornings at the rink becoming a family ritual. Whether cheering for local teams or national heroes, the sport evokes a sense of pride and unity that few other activities can match. 🏆 History, Legacy, and Heroes Legends like Wayne Gretzky and Hayley Wickenheiser aren’t just athletes—they are symbols of perseverance and excellence. Their impact goes beyond stats and championships, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams. ❄️ Hockey as Culture In Canada, hockey isn’t confined to the NHL. It’s in backyard rinks, high school gyms, and street hockey games. It’s a key part of holidays, friendships, and even national identity. From the Stanley Cup to local beer leagues, hockey creates traditions that feel almost sacred. 🤝 A Game That Unites Hockey bridges cultural divides and brings communities together, fostering inclusion and teamwork. Programs across the country use the sport to promote diversity and offer opportunities to kids from all backgrounds. Hockey in Canada is more than just a sport—it’s a shared experience that connects people through passion, history, and community spirit. And I couldn’t be prouder of my boys, my Erik and Andrew, who work hard and play this game every day 💕💕 #HockeyCulture #Canada #Community #Teamwork #Pride

In the world of hockey, triumph isn't just measured by goals scored or matches won; it's also found in the stories of individuals who defy expectations and overcome challenges with sheer determination and passion for the sport. Today, on International Down Syndrome Day, we celebrate two remarkable individuals whose journeys through Hockey with Intellectual Disabilities, also known as Hockey ID, exemplify the power of inclusion, resilience, and teamwork. Read the full story below 👇

Did you know that promoting youth sports engagement can improve adult fan commitment by 55%? The NHL and NHLPA have mastered this approach through impactful programs and initiatives for youth. Learn to Play is one of their standout programs, which is designed to help more families join the hockey community. It reduces barriers to entry by providing young players with equipment, ice time, and coaching, and helps them discover their love for the game. The value of learning to play hockey goes beyond skating and puck-handling skills. It helps kids to develop life skills such as responsibility, respect, perseverance, and teamwork. By learning to fall and get back up again, they’re teaching kids to be resilient while they create memories with new friends. Investing in the youth of today means more passionate fans for a lifetime. #NHL #hockey #sportsindustry

This past year has been monumental for the American Special Hockey Association (ASHA) as we witnessed unparalleled growth in making hockey more inclusive and welcoming for all abilities. 📍Expanding Horizons: With over 130 affiliated & member organizations, including 14 new programs in previously untapped areas, we're reaching more communities than ever before. 🤝 Gratitude to All: A heartfelt thank you to our incredible athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, and community stakeholders! Your dedication and passion fuel our mission to make hockey accessible to everyone. 📈 Membership Surge: We're thrilled to announce a membership of 8,805, with 2,800 new members joining our ASHA family. 🏆 Event Success: From 22 Sanctioned Events engaging 150+ teams to summer camps and NHL game experiences for over 1,000 athletes & families, the impact of these gatherings is immeasurable. 💪 Empowering Support: Through $181,430 in program support and equipment distribution worth over $1 million, we're ensuring that financial barriers don't hinder participation. 🌟 Partnerships & Volunteerism: Collaborations with partners like Hockey Players in Business, National Hockey League (NHL),Pucks for Autism and Bauer Hockey along with our ambassadors led by Alex Ovechkin supported hundreds of local community initiatives! The unwavering dedication of our volunteers, who contributed over 35,000 hours, are the backbone of our success. 🔮 Future Endeavors: As we look ahead, with over 20 confirmed festivals and events, new program developments, enhanced resources, and training programs, the future of inclusive hockey is brighter than ever. Together, we're rewriting the narrative of hockey, creating a sport that embraces diversity and empowers individuals of all abilities. #hockeyisforeveryone #hockeyincludes #letsgrowforeardtogether

Have a read of the AUSPORT / ASC Modern Coach Approach!!! Spread this far and wide. Its about participation, enjoyment and retention. Its about winning well not winning at all costs. The only way to generate this change is to share and spread the word. #coaching #moderncoachapproach #ASC

We're excited to announce that TTC Australia is now a proud sponsor of Hockey Hype Australia, one of AU's fastest-growing sports media channels!  Hockey Hype Australia covers all levels of ice hockey in Australia and has earned accreditation from the NHL, AWIHL, and AIHL. With over 500,000 social media impressions per month and a strong focus on equity and inclusion, Hockey Hype Australia is making a significant impact in the Australian sports media landscape.   Why This Partnership Shines: Quality Focus: Both TTC and Hockey Hype Australia share a ‘second to none’ mindset, which ensures delivery of the very highest standards in our respective fields. Rapid Growth: Both organisations have experienced record growth in FY24, and have laid the foundations for this to continue in the years ahead. Innovation & Creativity: with a focus on groundbreaking use of metrics, analytical techniques & leading edge technologies, TTC & Hockey Hype Australia are both able to inform and present difference making opinion, advice & outcomes Shared Values: TTC & Hockey Hype Australia share a very strong, mutual commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and equity.   We are thrilled about this opportunity to align with an organisation that shares so many of our values, and we are very excited to play a part in their continued growth in 2024 & 2025!

The $2 Billion Youth Hockey Economy Is Growing Fast 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴—and so are the costs: 📊 Key Numbers: • Annual hockey spend for families averages $8,000–$15,000. • The hockey equipment market alone will hit $1.6B by 2025. • Participation grew 20% globally in the last decade, fueled by new leagues and international events. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 💡 ❶ Travel hockey programs are expanding rapidly, but burnout and costs threaten long-term participation. ❷ Technology-driven gear (like carbon-fiber sticks) is making hockey both safer and pricier.

Quality, pure quality

🏒 How youth hockey is growing stronger! The world of youth sports is evolving, with a focus on fostering healthy relationships, positive cultures, and lifelong skills. Across communities, we’re redefining success and prioritizing athlete well-being over the ‘win-at-all-costs’ mentality. 🔑 Here’s how the shift is happening: ✔️ Growth over outcomes ✔️ Prioritizing athlete well-being and safety ✔️ Building collaborative cultures ✔️ Focusing on lifelong, life-enriching skills Together, we’re shaping the future of youth sports for the better. Learn more at www.survivorsforchange.org. #YouthHockey #CommunityChange #PositiveCulture #HealthyRelationships #AthleteWellbeing