The Winkler Community Foundation and the Evan Thomas Memorial Fund have teamed up with the Winkler Minor Hockey Association to launch a new initiative that helps young athletes participate in organized hockey.
Through the newly activated Evan Thomas Memorial Trust Fund, the program will fully cover the registration fees for two players.
The fund, administered by the Winkler Community Foundation, is specifically intended for newcomers to the sport, according to Executive Director Myra Peters.
She says the goal is to ensure all kids have the chance to experience the benefits of team sports, regardless of their financial background.
Honouring a legacy
The Evan Thomas Memorial Fund was established in memory of Evan Thomas, the grandson of Frank and Betty Thomas, formerly of Winkler. Evan was one of the 16 people lost in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018.
His family, reflecting on his love of hockey and the lasting friendships he built at the Winkler Arena, created the fund to help new players feel that same sense of connection and community.
“This is the first time the Evan Thomas Memorial Trust Fund will be granting funds,” said Peters, adding that the foundation has been working with the Minor Hockey Association for about a year and a half to make the initiative a reality.
Related stories:
- Pritchard Memorial golf tournament continues to outdo itself
- First career home run highlights Graydon Funk's run to Player of the Month
Partnership with KidSport
To ensure the support reaches those who need it most, the foundation is working closely with KidSport, a national organization that helps families access sport opportunities. KidSport will assist in assessing the financial needs of applicants.
“If a new player is looking, we would fund the registration and cover that fee, and KidSport would help with maybe some sports equipment,” said Peters.
She emphasized the program is open to anyone new to minor hockey, regardless of age, and is especially welcoming to newcomers and immigrants to the community.
Applications are made during online registration with Winkler Minor Hockey. Parents simply check a box to indicate interest in the Evan Thomas Fund. Further questions can be directed to the Winkler Minor Hockey email.
- with files from the Winkler Community Foundation -