Record-breaking year sees nearly 100 local youth hockey players receiving financial support through community partnerships
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — In a milestone achievement, the Jr. Amerks Youth Hockey Organization awarded nearly $35,000 in scholarships that would help make hockey more accessible to young players — the largest distribution of needs-based financial aid to date.
This initiative aims to break down financial barriers for kids who want to play hockey. This year, 100 players, approximately 10% of the Jr. Amerks overall enrollment, received partial or full scholarships covering their season fees.
“This year’s scholarship distribution is a testimony to our community’s unwavering commitment to give every child the chance to play hockey,” said Robyn MacBride, president of the Jr. Amerks Youth Hockey Organization. “We believe that no child should be denied the opportunity to experience the benefits of hockey due to financial constraints. Our incredible partners have made this vision a reality.”
Financial need-based scholarships are part of the Jr. Amerks’ commitment to providing young athletes with the opportunity to experience the sport of hockey, made possible by community partners such as Hockey Buddies and the Tony Mazurkiewicz Memorial Scholarship Fund.
About Jr Amerks Partners
- Hockey Buddies: An organization founded by Rochester nativeCole Bardreau, who was recently named captain of the Bridgeport Islanders AHL team, donated nearly $22,000 in scholarships to support Jr. Amerks players this season. Hockey Buddies offers Youth Player Sponsorships for families in need of assistance paying for equipment and team due.
- Tony Mazurkiewicz Memorial Scholarship Fund: This fund honors the late Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz, a Rochester Police Officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty on July 21, 2022. The fund provides $557 scholarships in tribute to his badge number, supporting Jr. Amerks players who are the children of first responders.
- Sean Shortsleeve Memorial Scholarship Fund: Funded directly by the Jr. Amerks, this scholarship has provided consistent financial assistance to players in financial need for many years.
“These scholarships represent much more than financial support—they represent a promise to our youth that they are valued and have a place in hockey,” added MacBride.
The Jr. Amerks Youth Hockey Organization has a longstanding mission of promoting inclusivity within the sport, ensuring that any young athlete with a passion for hockey can participate. Through partnerships with the community and dedicated scholarship funds, the Jr. Amerks continue to grow Rochester’s hockey community and inspire the next generation of players.
