For some, hockey is a sport, but for Coach Jeremy at How to Hockey – a free, online hockey training resource – it’s so much more than that. It’s an escape, a support system, a passion and now with his support of HEROS, donating 10% of all profits from his online store, it’s a way to give back to the young people in his community that need it most.
Growing up with both parents being involved in the sport, some of Jeremy’s earliest memories involve ice, whether at the rink or on the pond. “I remember skating with my parents as a kid and never wanting to leave the ice. There were days where my dad would have to take my skates off to warm up my feet after a long skate,” said Jeremy.
As he continued playing hockey throughout his youth, Jeremy’s team became more and more like a family. They enjoyed the fun times together – games, practices and tournaments – but more importantly, were there for each other when they were faced with life’s challenges. The sport, and his team, provided Jeremy with an escape from the stressors of daily life, while his mentors and coaches helped him develop the tools needed to navigate his life journey.
Understanding the positive impact hockey had on his life, Jeremy sees sport – and hockey in particular – as an important development tool for young people, saying, “I think it’s important for kids to have access to sport. It provides them with coaches and role models that teach them respect and help them build character in a fun and positive environment.”
But Jeremy also knows firsthand that hockey isn’t always accessible for everyone.
“There were a few years where I couldn’t play organized hockey. It was tough, but I looked for any way I could to work on my skills and get on the ice as much as possible,” he said.
This experience, and his love of the game, led him to create How to Hockey; a free, online resource with the goal “to entertain, educate or motivate hockey players so that anyone, anywhere can enjoy the best game in the world.” Using his experience to create training plans, videos and drills for all levels of hockey players, Jeremy has found a meaningful way to keep hockey in his everyday life, but he wanted to do more to give back to the game he loves.
Jeremy has always given back to the hockey community, from donating thousands of dollars worth of equipment to local organizations and holiday toy drives, to paying full seasons worth of fees so that youth experiencing financial barriers still have the opportunity to play.
Wanting to maximize his impact, Jeremy began researching organizations that have established, success driven models. After combing through many worthwhile organizations, Jeremy found exactly what he was looking for: HEROS. “I liked that HEROS was a local option. It’s a bit of a smaller organization and the support they receive has more of a direct impact,” said Jeremy.
These weren’t the only things that drew him to HEROS. “I think my favourite thing about HEROS is the people. The volunteers giving kids the chance to play hockey,” said Jeremy. “The fact that it (HEROS) is volunteer driven and is able to connect those that want to make a difference to the kids that need it is incredible.”
We couldn’t agree more Jeremy, the people – players, volunteers and supporters like yourself – are what we love most about HEROS too.
As we enter the holiday season and you begin to look for that perfect gift for the hockey fan in your life, be sure to check out Jeremy’s store at merch.howtohockey.com, where 10% of all profits are donated to HEROS, helping children and youth across Canada play, learn and grow through hockey.
There are only a few weeks left in 2022 to make a donation and receive your charitable tax receipt. Click here to be a hero for a HERO today!