In addition to teaching children how to play hockey, the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation strives to complement students' academic and character development.  The Foundation, in partnership with educators and the hockey community, uses ice hockey to:

• Foster in our participants the belief that education is the key to a fulfilling and productive life
• Develop in our participants character traits that will enable them to be reliable teammates, responsible citizens, and effective leaders
• Encourage physical activity as a means to promote a healthy lifestyle and self-respect
• Complement participants’ classroom learning with additional resources and support

Working with Teachers, the Foundation Produces Results

The Foundation works directly with teachers to maximize the educational value of the program and ensure that our coaches are doing everything they can on the ice to help students succeed in the classroom.

From its launch in 2005, the Foundation was an immediate success with students, parents, and teachers.  Students with no prior skating experience have learned how to navigate on the ice and enjoyed the educational emphasis of the program.  More importantly, teachers and parents alike have seen a definite improvement in the academic and behavioral performance of the students as hockey entered their lives.