TORONTO — Rogers Communications today announced the launch of Team Rogers Community Draft, a nationwide program aimed at helping Canadian youth return to playing recreational sports when and where it is safe to do so in their communities.
Starting initially with hockey this fall, the program will provide “drafted” youth athletes (ages 5 to 17) with $150 each to help offset league registration fees, plus mentoring calls with Team Rogers professional athletes, Team Rogers merchandise and other unique sports experiences, says the company’s press release.
Applicant selection to Team Rogers will be done through a random draw. Draft selections start with hockey, with later draft classes planned for baseball players and tennis athletes. Registration for the hockey draft runs from September 29 to October 30. Applications can be submitted at rogers.com/GetDrafted.
Professional athletes on Team Rogers who will mentor the drafted youth include Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers), John Tavares (Toronto Maple Leafs), Bo Horvat (Vancouver Canucks), Mark Scheifele (Winnipeg Jets), Marie-Philip Poulin (Team Canada Hockey), Bianca Andreescu (Tennis Canada), Felix Auger-Aliassime (Tennis Canada), and Bo Bichette (Toronto Blue Jays).
The National Hockey League, which recently set out a new strategic plan for inclusion and culture change in the sport, will support the Team Rogers Community Draft by selecting 150 BIPOC boys and girls playing hockey in Canada to take part in the program.
“The next generation of hockey players will not only bring a new level of talent and creativity, but a new level of diversity and inclusion to the game,” said Kim Davis, senior executive vice-president of social impact, growth and legislative affairs at the National Hockey League, in the press release. “We are appreciative of our partnership with Rogers, and their commitment to providing access and opportunities for underrepresented players and their families.”
“Sport has the power to unite Canadians across the country, and as families continue to look for ways to manage life through Covid, we know that the role of sports in kids’ lives is more important than ever,” said Joe Natale, president and CEO of Rogers, in the release. “With the Team Rogers Community Draft, Rogers has the unique privilege of leveraging our sports partners and media assets to help reignite the passion for sports while making it just a little bit easier for thousands of families to be part of the games they love.”
