Field Hockey Canada’s Community sport for all update: grants supporting 60 projects in 10 provinces and one territory
Field Hockey Canada is delighted to update our members on the activation of this year’s Community Sport for All Initiative by celebrating the first milestone in its commitment to serving underserved communities across Canada. Through the continued support of the Government of Canada’s Community Sport for All Initiative (CSAI), Field Hockey Canada has secured $800,000 in funding over two years. The application process was launched nationwide. Field Hockey Canada is thrilled by the response from communities nationwide. This first disbursement of funding enabled the launch of 60 community-based field hockey projects across 10 provinces and one territory, reaching over 90 communities and serving almost 30,000 participants.
This funding is a huge step towards Field Hockey Canada’s goal to grow the sport through making field hockey more accessible and inclusive for all Canadians. The CSAI is designed to deliver for underserved communities, removing barriers and increasing participation among under-represented groups, including Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, low-income families, persons with disabilities, newcomers, and seniors.
By 2026, Field Hockey Canada will have directed almost $1 million into community sport development, serving tens of thousands in previously marginalized communities. These investments have already made a tangible impact, breaking down barriers and making hockey more accessible for Canadians across the country. Through linking community projects to local clubs and into the provincial membership network, Field Hockey Canada aims to ensure this is only the beginning of lasting systemic change.
Field Hockey Canada will soon have another application window for community organizations to apply for funding. As a reminder, funding will support delivery of three specific initiatives:
- Stick Together – A program focused on introducing field hockey to new communities through community partnerships.
- Hockey ID – A stream dedicated to inclusive programming for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Walking Hockey – A modified version of the game designed for seniors and those seeking a lower-impact way to stay active and engaged.
In the months to come, we will celebrate and showcase many of the projects in a story series. From urban cities to remote communities, Field Hockey Canada’s CSAI-supported projects are making a difference. Whether it’s the Grand River Friendship Society in Baden, Ontario, or the Spence Neighbourhood Association in Winnipeg, or newly developing programs in Saskatoon, Northern Nishnawbe and Yellowknife, these projects are making a difference and making sport accessible for all Canadians. They grow the game by ensuring that everyone—regardless of background or ability—has a place on the field.
Field Hockey Canada’s CEO Susan Ahrens has been astonished by the response to this year’s application window.
“The volume and reach of projects from communities across the country is hugely satisfying to see. This is systemic change in action. Bringing communities closer to Field Hockey Canada as the national governing body and in turn, bringing more people to the sport and allowing them to enjoy the incredible benefits playing field hockey brings to our lives,” Ahrens said.
Field Hockey Canada would like to thank the Government of Canada for its continued investment in community sport. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive sporting landscape.
