Welcome to The Hockey Xchange!
Our Purpose as a Non-Profit
Hockey is an incredible sport, and the cost of ice hockey gear shouldn‘t keep anyone from playing.
Mission Statement
The mission of Hockey Xchange, is based on the belief that hockey should be a sport for everyone, regardless of financial status or background. Our mission is to foster inclusivity in the game by reducing barriers to entry and helping families lower the costs of participation. Through our equipment exchange initiative, we provide an accessible way for players to trade and upgrade gear, ensuring that individuals from diverse communities can stay in the game they love. By creating a more equitable hockey community, we strive to inspire the next generation of players to embrace the sport’s values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance.
Hockey's financial demands and lack of inclusivity have tangible impacts on participation rates and the sport's diversity.
Financial Barriers
- High Costs: Youth hockey expenses can average thousands of dollars annually, encompassing equipment, ice time, and travel. For instance, the average cost per child is approximately $4,478, with some families paying up to $7,371 for teenagers.
AP News
Lack of Inclusivity
- Racial Homogeneity: The NHL's workforce is predominantly white, with 83.6% identifying as such, and men comprising nearly 62% of the total.
Impact on Diversity and Growth
- Economic Obstacles: High costs and limited access to facilities further hinder participation from diverse communities.
Columbia Spectator
Addressing these financial and inclusivity challenges is crucial for broadening hockey's appeal and ensuring it's growth across diverse populations.
Scan & fill out our form if interested in an exchange!
Phone Number: (813) 489-9204 Email: Niamhockeyxchange@gmail.com
How It Works
1. Donate your gear!
We have donation bins currently located at:
Power Pole Arena, TGH Ice Plex (Ryan Cronin’s Office), and Lakeland Ice Arena,
where you can drop off gently used hockey equipment at any time. Your donations help ensure every player has access to the gear they need.
2. Gear Collection
Our team collects the donated equipment from our contacts at designated rinks, where we begin the process of preparing it for it’s new owners.
3. Sanitizing The Equipment
All donations are carefully cleaned and sanitized to ensure safety and quality. We make sure the gear is in great condition and ready for use by its next player.
4. Exchange Your Hockey Gear
We now offer biweekly gear exchanges! To participate, simply fill out the Google Sheet above, scan the QR code on any donation bin, or send us a message. Once submitted, we’ll contact you with the next exchange date, time, and details to ensure we have the right gear for your needs.
-You give us gear, we give you gear
5. Support Hockey for All
By donating hockey gear or making a monetary contribution, you’re helping make the sport more affordable and accessible for everyone. You can also support us by simply spreading the word! Your generosity allows us to continue providing equipment to players in need and keeping hockey within reach for all.