OK Tire Stores Inc. and Hockey Canada are marking the second year of Drive to Play, a program aimed at helping more young Canadians access local hockey. According to the announcement, the initiative supports players and minor hockey associations by reducing financial barriers and contributing to the Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund.
Drive to Play connects OK Tire’s independently owned stores with hockey families across the country. The Assist Fund provides financial support to families facing registration barriers, and the release notes it has helped more than 12,800 families since its inception, with all donations distributed directly to communities in every province and territory.
The partnership between OK Tire and Hockey Canada was first announced in 2024 and includes support for grassroots programs as well as alignment with national and international events such as the IIHF World Junior Championship and IIHF Women’s World Championship.
“Our members aren’t just business owners, they’re parents, coaches, volunteers and neighbours who understand the positive impact sport has on young people,” Mielko said.
Young players entered through participating OK Tire locations or online. Winners represented communities from Nanaimo, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Geraldton, Toronto, Ottawa, Pierrefonds, Woodstock Carleton, Charlottetown, Middle Sackville, Conception Bay and Yellowknife.
“Initiatives like Drive to Play help provide more young players with opportunities to be part of our National Winter Sport,” said Dean McIntosh, senior vice‑president of revenue, fan experience and community impact for Hockey Canada.
This year, the program awarded 13 minor hockey players, one from each Hockey Canada Member Branch, with $500 to help offset registration costs. Each winner’s local hockey association received $1,500 for programming, equipment and facility needs. OK Tire also contributed $30,000 to the Assist Fund, bringing its total contributions to $55,000 since 2025.
