Children
Growing Concern That Hockey Too Expensive To Play
By Diana Robinson
Dec 8, 2007, 20:44

(NC)-A new national survey conducted by Harris Decima Research on behalf of Henkel Consumer Goods of Canada shows that Canadians are concerned about the state of the national pastime, hockey.

One growing concern that many Canadians expressed - 89 per cent - was that the cost to play hockey needs to be reduced so that more children can play.

Rising registration and user fees, reduced phys-ed classes in schools, a lack of available and adequate facilities, and the increasing cost of equipment and transportation have resulted in an alarming number of children being prevented or limited in their chance to play organized sports.

Recognizing that many Canadian children just can't afford to play hockey, Henkel is joining with KidSport,T a national children's charitable program that helps disadvantaged kids over the barriers preventing or limiting their participation in organized sports.

"As supporters of hockey at many skill levels, including the upcoming 2008 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship that will take place for the first time ever in Canada in May 2008, we believe that all children should have an opportunity to play hockey if they want," said John Schofield, VP & Country Manager Henkel Consumer Goods Canada Inc.

Henkel has launched The Henkel Play Fair.Play Clean contest and is asking Canadian children and their parents what they think playing strong, clean and fair hockey means to them. Canadians six to 16 years of age can team up with their parents or legal guardians, log onto www.henkelpowerplayers.ca and follow the on-screen instructions to submit an original essay of 250-500 words.

Henkel will donate $5 through their corporate philanthropy program, Henkel Smile, to KidSport for every essay entry that is received. This is in addition to the company's recent initial donation of $25,000.

"We recognize the need for kids without financial support to be able to play the national game and we have stepped up with our Henkel Smile Program to give little Canadian hockey players the chance to smile and play," said Mr. Schofield.

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