Kruger Big Assist nominations now open
Who: Kruger Products (Kruger)
What: The paper manufacturer has announced the sixth year of its Big Assist program and a roster of hockey stars who will serve as 2026 program ambassadors.
Since its launch in 2020, Kruger Big Assist has helped to make hockey more accessible and inclusive for children across the country by donating more than $1 million. The program has supported over 50 Canadian minor hockey associations and helped more than 1,500 families remove financial barriers.
Kruger’s brand ambassador for 2026 are:
- Matthew Schaefer, first overall 2025 NHL Draft pick and three-time Team Canada gold medalist
- Marie-Philip Poulin, four-time Olympic medalist and three-time world champion
- Hayley Wickenheiser, five-time Olympic medalist and Hockey Hall of Famer
From now until Feb. 22, Canadians can nominate a minor hockey association for their chance to receive $100,000. Votes for the the grand prize winner will be cast in April.
Kruger is committing a total of $200,000 in funding in 2026. Five regional winners will each receive $25,000 and one grand prize winner will receive an additional $75,000.
Last year’s grand prize winner, North Halton Girls Hockey Association, used its funding to offer programs and initiatives that introduce girls to hockey to keep them engaged and motivated to play longer. This includes free fundamental hockey programming, subsidized registration fees and the introduction of translation services to ensure language barriers don’t stop new-to-Canada kids from playing hockey.
