CCM Hockey Partners with Montreal Canadiens Foundation to Support Youth Sports
CCM Hockey's Commitment to Youth Through Partnership with the Canadiens
In a landmark initiative, CCM Hockey has unveiled a multi-year partnership with the Montreal Canadiens organization and the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation. This partnership is dedicated to fostering a culture of physical activity and healthy living among underprivileged young people.
The primary focus of this collaboration revolves around the Bleu Blanc Bouge skating program, a community-driven initiative designed to facilitate hockey accessibility for children across Quebec. CCM will step in as the official sponsor, committing to provide vital equipment, including helmets and skates, to over 650 children. These young participants will engage in a comprehensive six-week learn-to-skate program, which not only teaches them essential skating skills but also instills a love for the sport from an early age.
Marrouane Nabih, CEO of CCM Hockey, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "Working together with the Canadiens' Foundation resonates deeply with our mission to expand the reach of hockey and significantly impact our community." This sentiment is shared by the foundation, reflecting both organizations' dedication to making hockey more inclusive and nurturing the sport at the grassroots level.
CCM Hockey is also committed to donating equipment for the Canadiens' flagship project, which focuses on the establishment and activation of community multisport and refrigerated rinks throughout Quebec. By investing in these facilities, CCM hopes to enhance access to the sport and provide children with a platform to explore hockey and other activities.
Geoff Molson, the owner, president, and CEO of the Montreal Canadiens, acknowledged this partnership's importance: "We are thankful for CCM's ongoing support of the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation, which directly benefits the youth central to our mission." He highlighted the newfound capabilities this collaboration brings to the Bleu Blanc Bouge rinks, emphasizing the opportunities it creates for children.
This partnership exemplifies CCM Hockey's commitment to community involvement and its historic connection to the sport. As one of the leading players in hockey equipment and apparel manufacturing, CCM takes pride in its roots in Montreal. With operations extending across North America and internationally, the company has established itself as a reliable provider for professional hockey players, including NHL stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, as well as the Women's Professional Hockey League (PWHL).
Founded in 2000, the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation has dedicated itself to inspiring physical activity and healthy lifestyles in children aged 4 to 17, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. With over $54.4 million invested in community initiatives, the foundation serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for at-risk youth across Quebec. Its flagship Bleu Blanc Bouge program not only builds community rinks but also encourages children to engage in various sports while enjoying the physicality and camaraderie that youth sports provide.
As this partnership unfolds, both CCM Hockey and the Montreal Canadiens hope to spark a movement within the youth community, cultivating the next generation of hockey players and lifelong sports enthusiasts. They recognize that by providing the necessary resources and support, they can pave the way for a healthier tomorrow and inspire countless children to lace up their skates and chase their dreams on the ice.