Ajinomoto Foods Partners with Ontario Reign for Youth Development Programs

Ajinomoto Foods Partners with Ontario Reign

In a notable move to support community development, Ajinomoto Foods North America, a renowned manufacturer of specialty frozen foods, has announced a partnership with the Ontario Reign, a team in the American Hockey League (AHL). This collaboration is aimed at enhancing youth potential through educational support and engaging activities, particularly for young hockey enthusiasts.

The partnership kicks off with the introduction of a scholarship program under the Junior Reign Scholarship initiative, which aims to foster educational aspirations in local youth. The scholarship will be awarded during the exciting events of ReignCon and Anime Night taking place at Toyota Arena in Ontario in March 2025. This initiative not only underscores Ajinomoto's commitment to community involvement but also aligns with its mission to make everyday eating a joyful experience.

Fostering Future Stars

Hiroshi Kaho, the President and CEO of Ajinomoto Foods North America, expressed pride in this partnership, stating, "As a company that is committed to supporting communities where we operate, we're proud to give back in some small way by encouraging local youth in their future development." This sentiment highlights the dual focus of the partnership: nurturing the future stars of hockey and supporting educational pathways.

In conjunction with the scholarship, Ajinomoto Foods will also enhance the Ontario Reign's Youth Fantasy Camp, set to take place on January 4th, 2025, just before a home game for the Reign. This camp is specially designed for children aged seven to fifteen, offering them a unique opportunity to learn from professional Reign coaches and staff, mirroring the same training that the team players undergo daily. This hands-on experience can profoundly impact aspiring young athletes, nurturing their skills and passion for the sport.

Community-Centric Goals

Dan Lynch, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Ontario Reign, also expressed enthusiasm about this partnership. He stated, "We're thrilled to partner with Ajinomoto Foods, who are helping to support our youth hockey initiatives in Ontario." This collaboration aims not only to provide nutritional benefits but also to promote a lifestyle centered around healthy living among youth, embodying a community-focused vision.

Both Ajinomoto Foods and the Ontario Reign are deeply rooted in the Ontario, California community. The Reign serves as the major developmental affiliate for the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, proving to be a vital pathway for young hockey players at all levels. Last season alone, 14 players from the Reign made appearances in NHL games, showcasing the effectiveness of their development programs.

Ajinomoto Foods has been a familiar name in the local community for over ten years, known for its commitment to quality and delicious frozen food products that cater to diverse consumer needs. Its diverse range of brands, including Ajinomoto, Jose Ole, Ling Ling, and Tai Pei, can be found across various retailers such as Costco and Walmart, making them a staple in households across the nation.

A Broader Purpose

The alliance between Ajinomoto Foods and the Ontario Reign reflects a broader objective of social responsibility, where companies engage in the betterment of their communities. By integrating youth initiatives into their business model, both entities are dedicated to not just sporting excellence but also to the prosperity and enrichment of the youth in their community.

As the 2024-2025 season unfolds, this partnership will likely inspire many young players and students, instilling hope, encouragement, and the tools necessary for them to pursue their dreams, both on and off the ice. Through these impactful initiatives, Ajinomoto Foods and the Ontario Reign are not just contributing to sports but are carving pathways for future champions in academics and athletics alike.