Youth 13 AA Collingwood Junior Blues Lead Community Initiative to Support Women and Children in Crisis
Youth 13 AA Collingwood Junior Blues Lead Community Initiative to Support Women and Children in Crisis
The Youth 13 AA Collingwood Junior Blues — a team of 17 players aged 11 and 12 — have proven that leadership isn’t defined by age, but by action.
Each year, the Toronto Maple Leafs challenge minor hockey teams across Ontario to give back to their communities in meaningful ways. Inspired by this call, a group of local moms saw an opportunity to do something powerful — not just for their community, but for their kids. What unfolded became a deeply impactful, youth-led initiative that has rippled far beyond the rink.
The concept began with conversations between Taylor Green, Team Manager Jess Elkins, and Kate Hunter, whose sons all play on the Junior Blues. Together, they developed an idea that required players to take ownership — canvassing their neighbourhoods and collecting donations for My Friend’s House, a Collingwood-based shelter supporting women and children fleeing domestic abuse.
“We wanted this to be kid-led and kid-actioned,” said Taylor Green. “When young people play a direct role in giving back, the meaning and impact run deeper. We wanted them truly invested.”
Learning Through Action
Players began visiting homes, speaking directly with neighbours, and asking for contributions — whether monetary donations or urgently needed food and household products from My Friend’s House’s wish list. What started as a contest entry quickly evolved into something transformative.
Through their conversations, the young athletes encountered topics most children rarely discuss: how families rebuild after violence, why shelters exist, and the importance of showing up for others in crisis.
They didn’t shy away. They leaned in.
The initiative has opened doors to honest dialogue about domestic violence, resilience, and compassion. Collection dates are aligned with home games at the Eddie Bush Arena, where each visiting team is invited to participate. This not only amplifies donations but encourages wider awareness and understanding beyond Collingwood’s borders.
More Than Hockey
For the mothers who helped shape this idea, My Friend’s House stood out because it is profoundly important yet chronically under-supported. Local schools had collected supplies for the shelter in the past, putting it on the community’s radar — but the need remained significant.
“The challenge was the catalyst, but what happened after was bigger than any contest,” says Taylor Green. “The boys are closer as a team, their sense of responsibility has grown, and they broke their losing streak. They see themselves as contributors to community life — not just hockey players.”
Team members now speak proudly about helping women and kids they may never meet. They understand character isn't just about performance on the ice — it’s about how you show up for others.
“I learned the importance of My Friend’s house for women and children in my community facing danger at home. They usually leave home with nothing. The shelter provides anything they may need.”
“We are very lucky to get to play the sport we love and it’s important to think about people that aren’t so lucky and what we could do to help.”
“I learned that these people need help in the toughest times and we can be there to help them with our donations.”
“It felt like I was doing something important for the community. It made me feel lucky for the things I have.”
“It is important for teams like ours to help in the community because it shows that no one in our community is left behind and we'll be strong when we work together.”
What They’re Collecting — and How the Community Can Help
To ensure meaningful impact, the Junior Blues established a schedule of collection items based on My Friend’s House’s most urgent needs — everything from pantry staples to personal hygiene products, children’s supplies, and household essentials.
A donation bin is set up at Eddie Bush Arena during home games. Visiting teams are encouraged to bring contributions, but the wider community is equally invited. Anyone can drop by to donate — whether or not they stay to watch the game (which is free for spectators). Dec 20 at 4pm community members are welcome to drop off donations (no used clothing or toys please).
This grassroots initiative is shaping future leaders — young people who believe accountability extends beyond their jersey — and inspiring others to do the same.
The Collingwood Junior Blues have proven that when youth are invited not just to participate, but to lead, small gestures can spark something much bigger. Their actions will leave a mark on their team, their town, and the lives of the women and children they’ve shown up for — a legacy far greater than the win column.
Team photo by Kate Hunter :
Coaches L-R: Eric Ladly, Paul Crowder, Dave Edwards, Aaron Pilon (not pictured), Kevin Klein (not pictured)
L-R back row: Bronn Bishop, Fraser Thompson, Ross Bechtel, Ryder Edwards, Hunter Proc, Grady Green, Cullen Ladly, William MacArthur, Will Whitely
Front Row L-R: Mikko Weinper, Oliver Crowder, Joel Robinson, Evan Fulton, Sam Elkins, Hudson Wood, Parker Yaskovitch
Players not pictured, Jaxon McCrank, Luka Pilon, Tom Adams
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(HUGE Thank you to JULIE CARD with mycollingwood.ca for writing this article) READ THE FULL STORY