Algoma Steel rolls out $150K for local minor hockey leagues

The Soo Pee Wee Hockey League (SPWHL) and the Sault Female Hockey Association (SFHA) will be sharing $150,000 in financial support over the next three years.

The money is being donated by Algoma Steel and will be distributed in $50,000 increments each year.

The SPWHL will receive $40,000 per year and the SFHA will get $10,000 with the money helping to attempt to reduce expenses for families.

"We are incredibly grateful for Algoma Steel's unwavering support," said SPWHL president Joey Francella. "We understand that hockey can be expensive and Algoma Steel’s generosity helps ensure that more children can play the sport they love."

The Sault Female Hockey Association also expressed their gratitude for Algoma Steel's contributions. "We are thankful for Algoma Steel's generous support," said SFHA president Chantal Rilley.  "This funding is crucial in allowing us to continue providing opportunities for young female athletes to further develop their skills while growing their passion for hockey."

Below is the full press release from the Soo Pee Wee Hockey League:

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – Algoma Steel has continued its tradition of supporting youth sports by sponsoring the Soo Pee Wee Hockey League (SPWHL) and the Sault Female Hockey Association (SFHA). Over the past three years, Algoma Steel has quietly donated over $150,000 to these associations and has now announced a further commitment of $150,000 over the next three years.

This substantial sponsorship will be distributed in annual increments of $50,000. Of this amount, the SPWHL will receive $40,000 per year, while the SFHA will receive $10,000 per year. In an era of rising costs, this donation significantly helps reduce expenses for local families, making participation in hockey more accessible.

The Soo Pee Wee Hockey League and Sault Female Hockey Association boast comprehensive hockey programs that serve over 1,350 young hockey players and families. The associations offer hockey programs for children as young as four years old.  The SPWHL and SFHA are committed to creating a safe and fun environment where kids can develop both healthy life skills. By focusing on hard work, commitment, and teamwork, the youth hockey not only builds better athletes but also better individuals. The impact of these programs extends beyond the rink, as participants carry these values into their daily lives, contributing positively to the community.

"We are incredibly grateful for Algoma Steel's unwavering support," said SPWHL president Joey Francella. "We understand that hockey can be expensive and Algoma Steel’s generosity helps ensure that more children can play the sport they love."

The Sault Female Hockey Association also expressed their gratitude for Algoma Steel's contributions. "We are thankful for Algoma Steel's generous support," said SFHA president Chantal Rilley.  "This funding is crucial in allowing us to continue providing opportunities for young female athletes to further develop their skills while growing their passion for hockey."

Sault Ste. Marie is a hockey town, with a rich tradition and deep passion for the sport. Algoma Steel aligns with this heritage by investing in local hockey programs. "At Algoma Steel, we believe in the power of community and nurturing the next generation," said Mike Garcia, CEO of Algoma Steel. "Supporting local hockey promotes physical activity and teamwork among our youth while strengthening our community. We're proud to foster the growth of young athletes and contribute to Sault Ste. Marie's rich hockey tradition."

The idea that "together everyone achieves more" captures the essence of teamwork and collaboration, the very thing we all look to instill in our children.  Algoma Steel puts this concept to work by walking-the-walk in this win-win scenario.