MARKHAM, ON, March 11, 2024 /CNW/ – Today, Hydro One Inc. (Hydro One) and the Coaches Association of Ontario (CAO) announced their Indigenous Hockey Coaching Grant has opened applications for 2024. First launched in 2023, the grant aims to increase Indigenous representation in sports leadership by making hockey more affordable and accessible to coaches from Indigenous communities by providing them with up to $1,500 in funding for expenses such as equipment, travel and training.

Last year, the grant was awarded to 38 recipients representing more than 25 Indigenous communities across Ontario. The funding was used towards hockey essentials such as practice time at local rinks, various equipment and registration fees.

“Thanks to this funding from Hydro One and CAO, I’ve been able to take necessary training to help coach alongside my community members and be a bench support staff in the Little NHL tournament this year,” said Darryl Williams-Jones, a 2023 recipient of the Indigenous Hockey Coaching Grant and coach of the U7 Garden River First Nation team. “We purchased some equipment so our coaches could take to the ice and help guide our athletes one on one. It also helped to offset some on-ice time so our team can skate together and build relationships with each other.”

“With the success of last year’s inaugural grant, I’m excited to see that the CAO and Hydro One are teaming up again to invest in young Indigenous athletes and continue to raise awareness about the power of sport,” said Chico Ralf, President, Little Native Hockey League. “Increasing Indigenous representation encourages our youth to become part of a team which in turn has a positive impact on their community as a whole.”

“Coaches are important role models for athletes and communities, inspiring of youth to participate and do their best,” said Penny Favel, Vice President, Indigenous Relations, Hydro One. “This grant will help more Indigenous coaches share the power of sport with their teams and communities. We’re very proud to help make hockey more inclusive, safe, and accessible so more Canadians can enjoy the sport.”

“Every day, we support coaches across Ontario in creating safe and positive experiences for all athletes,” said Jeremy Cross, Executive Director, Coaches Association of Ontario. “Knowing the challenges some communities are up against when it comes to sports, we are thrilled to once again partner with Hydro One for this grant that will continue to support Indigenous coaches.”

This announcement comes during the Little Native Hockey League (Little NHL) tournament, where a record-breaking 4,000 Indigenous athletes and their coaches are participating in a week-long tournament. Hydro One is a proud presenting sponsor for the tournament and was recently inducted into the LNHL Hall of Fame as a “Friend of the Little NHL,” honouring a partnership that first began in 2003.

Through its Community Investment program, Hydro One focuses on building safe communities in Ontario and directs at least 20 per cent of its corporate donations and sponsorships to Indigenous communities and initiatives that benefit Indigenous communities. The company also supports programs, events and initiatives that focus on safety training and safe play. Some of its partners include The ACT Foundation and Coaches Association of Ontario.

For more information and to apply for the grant, please visit: www.HydroOne.com/LittleNHL. The deadline to apply is March 25, 2024.