Kruger Big Assist reveals 2026 regional winners
Who: Kruger Products
What: The company behind brands such as Cashmere, Purex, Scotties, SpongeTowels and Bonterra has revealed the the five minor hockey associations that are the regional winners of its 2026 Kruger Big Assist program. Each of the winners will receive $25,000 to help make hockey more accessible and inclusive in their communities. The regional winners are:
- Vancouver Female Ice Hockey Association – Vancouver, B.C.
- Saskatoon & District Comets Female Hockey – Saskatoon, Sask.
- Chapleau Minor Hockey Association – Chapleau, Ont.
- Lac de Deux Montagnes Hockey Association – Deux-Montagnes, Que.
- Keswick Valley Minor Hockey – Keswick Valley, N.B.
Kruger is also launching a public vote starting on April 13, where Canadians can cast their vote to help determine which association will receive an additional $75,000 grand prize.
This year's Kruger Big Assist program is being championed by three Canadian hockey ambassadors: Matthew Schaefer, first overal 2025 NHL Draft pick and three-time Team Canada gold medalist; Marie-Philip Poulin, five-time Olympic medalist and three-time world champion; and Hayley Wickenheiser, five-time Olympic medalist and Hockey Hall of Famer.
“Six years in and the Kruger Big Assist has grown to be even bigger than we initially envisioned thanks to unbelievable community support and the powerful backing of our incredible ambassadors," said Susan Irving, chief marketing officer, Kruger Products in a press release. “With over $1 million already donated to help families access hockey, we’re proud to celebrate another inspiring group of regional winners as they compete for the $75,000 grand prize.”
Last year’s grand prize winner, the North Halton Girls Hockey Association, used its funding to offer programs and initiatives to introduce girls to hockey and keep them engaged and motivated to play longer.
