When the Victoria Grizzlies announced new ownership in June 2024, connecting with the youth of the Westshore was one of the first priorities, new club president David Michaud proclaimed.
In August, the club announced it had signed a 3 year partnership agreement with Maxxam Insurance to ensure all local youth 18 & under could attend Grizzlies games at no-charge when accompanied by an adult. As the Grizzlies hit the stretch drive in their first season under new ownership & management, it’s safe to say Grizzlies hockey in the Westshore is catching on.
So far this season, nearly 2200 youth have attended Grizzlies hockey at no-charge thanks to Maxxam Insurance. Since the calendar flipped to January, attendance in the 18 & under group is up over 43% and overall attendance is up over 30% from the first half of the season.
Club president David Michaud feels that people are just starting to catch on.
“Whenever you launch a new initiative, it takes time for people to realize what a great offer is in front of them. We’re really encouraged by the crowds we’ve seen in January and are looking forward to seeing them climb higher and higher as we approach the playoffs. A lot of people don’t realize that Maxxam Youth program extends into the playoffs as well, this isn’t something we just do in the regular season.”
As attendance has risen, so has the atmosphere in the arena. That is something the players have taken note of said Grizzlies head coach & general manager Rylan Ferster. “The players feel it, and it makes an impact. The juices get flowing and our guys enjoy it.”
Feedback from fans has been equally encouraging as well. “I can’t get through a game now where long-time season ticket holders don’t come up to me and offer words of encouragement and appreciation for how things have come along this year.” said Michaud. “We all want to be a part of something meaningful, from the players to the coaches, management to fans, the best parts of sports are the connections we make and the energy that comes along with that. I’m excited for what the future holds for us.”
The team has worked hard to ensure a night out with the Grizzlies is family friendly and affordable for all. Grizzlies hockey is proud to offer free parking for games, a $5.00 Chilly Ones Lager available all game long, $10 tickets in the Viking Value section, great group pricing and of course the no-charge youth program. Add it all up, and Michaud thinks it’s a great night out for hard core hockey fans, or families just looking to get out on a Saturday night, and not break the bank.
“I’m really proud of the impact we’re making, both on and off the ice. Our players are involved in the community with school visits, or playing floor hockey with the group from the Special Olympics. We also launched our new Hometown Heroes program presented by Keycorp Developments, where a deserving non-profit or charity group receives $5,000 each home game to help them do the great work they do in our community.”
If you’re interested in learning more about a night out with the Grizzlies, reach out to info@victoriagrizzlies.com
Your next chance to see the Grizzlies at the Q Centre comes this Saturday February 1st at 6pm when Prince George comes to town. The Grizzlies will celebrate the crew and families of the HMCS Vancouver at the game. Tickets are available at the Grizzlies box office, or by CLICKING HERE
