BOSTON (Feb. 19, 2025) – During the 4 Nations Face-Off, the National Hockey League Players’ Association proudly announced a pair of hockey equipment donations from NHLPA Goals & Dreams in the host cities. G&D continued its season-long 25th anniversary celebrations by donating $25,000 worth of new equipment to the Ahuntsic Braves organization in Montreal and is partnering with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation on a commitment to donate $25,000 worth of sleds to youth hockey players.
“While we are seeing the game played at the highest level of competition during the 4 Nations Face-Off, the players have continued to appreciate the importance of giving back at the grassroots level. These two new NHLPA Goals & Dreams donations that were announced in the two host cities will help the Ahuntsic Braves in Montreal and the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation across the United States reach more youth hockey players,” said Marty Walsh, NHLPA Executive Director.
NHLPA Goals & Dreams’ donation to the Ahuntsic Braves was announced in arena during the first two 4 Nations Face-Off games in Montreal.
“On behalf of the Ahuntsic Braves organization, I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support and generosity during the 4 Nations Face-Off. This contribution not only enhances our players’ experience but also inspires them to strive for excellence both on and off the ice,” said Martin Longchamps, President of the Ahuntsic Braves’ Board of Directors. “NHLPA Goals & Dreams’ commitment to supporting youth hockey is truly commendable, and we are deeply appreciative of the positive influence of the players on our young athletes.”
Meanwhile, Marty Walsh announced the donation in Boston on Tuesday evening at “Go Forward! Celebrating the Power of Hockey to Break Barriers” – a reception to benefit the NHL Foundation U.S. and the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. G&D will work with the Reeve Foundation to identify deserving youth hockey players and programs in the United States that will be receiving these new sleds.
“Partnering with the NHLPA Goals & Dreams and getting sleds to youth hockey programs is more than just providing equipment; it's about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all athletes to experience the power of the game. Every sled donated opens a door for young players to dream bigger, achieve more, and be part of a community where hockey is accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability,” said Maggie Goldberg, President & CEO of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
Twenty-four youth hockey players have been hosted at each game in the 4 Nations Face-Off and participated in the pregame ceremonies. These youth were involved with holding the large country flags for the respective country’s team playing in each game, stood shoulder-to-shoulder on the bluelines next to some of their favourite players in the starting lineups, joined in the banner exchange with the team captains, and subsequently stayed to watch the game.
Including tomorrow’s final, a total of 168 youth hockey players between 9 and 13 years old – from Ahuntsic Braves, Sun Youth’s Hockey Development Program, Hockey 4 Youth, Dorchester Youth Hockey and United Heroes League – will have represented NHLPA Goals & Dreams at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
