Building Community Through Hockey: The Kids Helping Kids Program

At Champions Hockey Academy, we’re proud to support initiatives that use hockey as a platform for connection and growth. One such initiative is the “Kids Helping Kids” program, spearheaded by our very own Chris Mahon. This program goes beyond teaching skating and scoring—it’s about building community and creating opportunities for all kids to experience the joy of hockey.

Chris’s vision for “Kids Helping Kids” grew from a desire to bridge gaps in the sport he loves. He recognized a unique opportunity to welcome newcomers to Canada by introducing them to hockey—many for the first time.

“When I noticed the growing number of newcomers in our community who’d never experienced life in Canada or played hockey, I knew we could get these kids on the ice,” Mahon explains.

The program pairs youth players as junior coaches with newcomers, creating a dynamic where both groups learn and grow together. It’s mentorship in action—kids helping their peers improve their skills, build confidence, and develop relationships that go beyond the rink.

Partnering with organizations like the Brenden Oreto Foundation, which provides equipment free of charge, and Champions Hockey having provided the jerseys, the program received overwhelming community support. Leah Stevenson and Dita Zarembo-Galina from the New Brunswick Multicultural Council were instrumental in helping the program thrive. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and local schools, the program eliminated financial barriers, making it accessible to all.

The impact has been incredible. Last year, 26 children from countries like Ukraine, Latvia, and Brazil joined the program, taking to the ice with excitement and determination. For many, hockey became more than a sport—it became a way to connect with others and build a sense of belonging.

“We’ve wrapped up our second season, and it’s been incredible,” Mahon says. “The kids and their families are genuinely excited to come to the rink. It’s not just about hockey—it’s about the friendships, the smiles, and the shared experiences.”

Chris Mahon’s dedication to the “Kids Helping Kids” program exemplifies what Champions Hockey Academy stands for: using the power of hockey to bring people together, build skills, and create lasting memories.