Bobcaygeon a finalist for Hockeyville

DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Bobcaygeon is one of four community finalists competing to be named Kraft Hockeyville 2021.

The finalists in this competition were announced on Saturday, March 20th. Kraft Hockeyville is a partnership between Kraft Heinz, the National Hockey League (NHL), and the National Hockey League Players’ Association, which annually supports local arenas with funding.

The other finalists are Lumsden, Saskatchewan, Saint Adolphe, Manitoba and Elsipogtog First Nation, New Brunswick. The local Kawartha Lakes community is looking for support for the Bobcaygeon-Verulam Community Centre.

“Generations have learned team building, social skills and a true sense of community by playing and coaching the game. But the pandemic is threatening the closure of this community keystone. Bobcaygeon is determined, to preserve this important fixture for future and aging generations and [to] make it more inclusive to all community members. If Bobcaygeon can win the title of Kraft Hockeyville 2021 they will work to remove barriers for both the young and young at heart, by installing accessible washrooms, improving change rooms and upgrading mechanical equipment and amenities,” read an NHL press release.

In a statement, Matt Bruce, Senior Brand Manager for Kraft Heinz, talked about his excitement at seeing this annual initiative continue to thrive, despite the pandemic.

“With so many deserving communities, selecting finalists is never easy, but we are thrilled to announce our Top 4 finalists and look forward to watching Canadians virtually support their big push towards the Kraft Hockeyville 2021 title.”

#bobcaygeon #hockey #KawarthaLakes