The Thorold PeeWee Blackhawks are giving back this season by teaming up with Toolbox Niagara. Together, they will collect winter clothing for the homeless by hosting clothing tosses at their home games.
Says head coach Sergio Sartor, “I wanted to add an element to the team to give them a feeling (that is) both rewarding as a team building activity but also giving back to the community and start their journey as volunteers throughout their life.”
Last Thursday the under-13 ice hockey team held their first sock toss where all the fans and parents present were invited to toss socks into the ice skating ring, collecting 197 pairs of socks in the process. At this Thursday’s home game everyone is invited to toss hats and next Thursday gloves will be collected.
Sartor has only been the head coach of the Thorold PeeWee Blackhawks since September but stresses that the team is already doing well, placing third in last week’s Beaverloch Farms Tournament.
“It was a great experience for the team and we were very happy with the result. The season’s been going great and our team motto is to be the hardest-working team in PeeWee hockey.”
Sartor believes that hockey has the power to shape young minds and turn kids into responsible citizens.
“It’s very much team building, but also a character building experience. They’re at the young adult age where you can start shaping them into being hardworking, (having) good sportsmanship, respect, and giving back to the community.”