The Steinbach Pistons of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League have announced a formal partnership with Steinbach Minor Hockey to support and grow the sport in the local region. This collaboration introduces several key initiatives, including a game day 50/50 program, specialized coaching for young players, and complimentary tickets for visiting tournament teams, all designed to foster a stronger hockey community.
The new partnership is already showing significant results. Through a 50/50 fundraising collaboration during the first five games at the Southeast Event Centre this past spring, Steinbach Minor Hockey raised $6,240. Minor Hockey provides sellers for the draws at Pistons home games, and the Pistons share the proceeds, directly supporting the youth association’s operational costs.
“Partnering with the Pistons and their 50/50 allows us as an association to send our kids out to games, they get to work a little and enjoy being a part of the Pistons and the atmosphere of high-level hockey,” said Josh Plett, President of Steinbach Minor Hockey. “The partnership helps us as an association, with a percentage of the proceeds going to offset costs associated with running a minor hockey program here in town. It’s very generous of the Pistons to assist us in this way, which shows the community mindset of the organization. It builds a solid relationship between the organizations as well as the community.”
Furthering the commitment to player development, the Pistons are providing dedicated goaltender coaching for Steinbach Minor Hockey netminders. Pistons goaltender coach Matt Thiessen, along with the team’s current goalies, will lead monthly sessions throughout the season. The Pistons are also assisting with team practices by sending a player to work with the kids on the ice, offering mentorship and demonstrating high-level skills.
To enhance the experience of tournaments hosted at the Southeast Event Centre, the Pistons are offering complimentary game tickets to all incoming teams, including players and coaches. This initiative aims to make local tournaments the most sought-after in the province by showcasing the community’s vibrant hockey culture.
The partnership reflects the Steinbach Pistons’ dedication to investing in the future of hockey and strengthening ties within the community.
