For The

Next
Generation

Since the team’s arrival and Foundation’s introduction in 2000, we have worked tirelessly to grow the game we love. Our commitment to the development of youth hockey and reducing barriers to our sport runs deep because we believe everyone should have a chance to play.

icon of a boy and a girl

+Children

learned the fundamentals of hockey through our no or low-cost hockey programs

icon of two hockey sticks

$+Invested

in the growth of youth hockey

mascot and kids all posing

This grassroots initiative invites first-time participants (ages 5 to 9) to try hockey for free. Designed for boys and girls who have no formal hockey experience or training, these 30-minute hockey clinics are intended to remove barriers of entry to the sport. Each participant receives a free T-shirt or jersey and stick!

free clinics

reaching 1,575 first-time players

Learn To Play presented by Performance Columbus, in association with Moo Moo Express Car Wash

In collaboration with the OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks, we have simplified the hockey development pathway for boys and girls ages 10 and under. Learn to Play aims to deliver a positive experience with age-appropriate instruction and certified coaching, led by former Blue Jackets player Andrew Cassels. 

sets

of equipment were provided at no cost to families  

kids on an ice rink in full hockey gear
Growth of Girls Hockey 

We’ve seen 11% year-over-year growth in participation within girls hockey programs supported by the Blue Jackets. A significant factor in this growth has been the addition of the Ohio AAA Blue Jackets Under-14 Girls team. The program was re-started this season in an effort to expand opportunities for central Ohio girls to play the sport at a high level close to home.  

Power Play Challenge presented by OhioHealth

Our hockey-themed wellness curriculum is designed to combat childhood obesity by incorporating street hockey and incentive-based fitness challenges in physical education classes. The program, intended for students in grades 2-5, is offered free of charge to elementary schools. Students also take part in a STEM-focused field trip to an OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rink.

+students

representing 167 schools participated 

Street Hockey in the Community 

Over the past 20 years, Blue Jackets “sticks in hands” programs have provided children in central Ohio greater access to hockey while developing the important life skills of teamwork, respect and responsibility. Through a comprehensive approach with community partners, we provide equipment donation, staff training, curriculum development, free clinics and more. All kids need to play are a pair of sneakers! This year, in an effort to remove barriers to the game and make hockey more accessible, a street hockey rink funded by the CBJ Foundation was officially opened in the city of Whitehall. 

young kids playing street hockey
high school hockey team posing
High School Hockey 

Since the Blue Jackets' inception, the club has been committed to the growth of high school hockey in central Ohio. Thanks to the support of OhioHealth, this commitment is exhibited in many ways, including the Hall of Hockey jersey display at Nationwide arena and the Blue Jackets Cup, an end of season tournament for local school teams. Additionally, each season the Blue Jackets invite high school seniors to join the team on the ice for a recognition ceremony, and Nationwide Arena hosts the Ohio Hockey Scholastic Athletic Association state ice hockey championships.   

Additional Partners Supported