Who We Are

The Hockey Is For Everyone program (formerly Diversity Program) is an AHAI supported vehicle providing young athletes from socio and economically diverse backgrounds the opportunity to use the sport of ice hockey to promote academic achievement, responsibility, respect, teamwork and good character. We provide 200+ young athletes per year the opportunity to learn to play this great sport.

The Program provides each athlete with full equipment, ice time, USA Hockey registration and a premier volunteer coaching staff, at no charge to them or their families.

Our Goal

We provide our athletes with a safe environment allowing them to learn the basic skills of ice hockey, regardless of age or skill level. Unlike other youth sports programs, there is not a strong emphasis on winning. Coaches encourage dedication, hard work and mutual respect for their teammates and celebrate individual accomplishments.

Support

AHAI’s Hockey Is For Everyone program is one of almost 40 programs throughout North America. Our program receives support through the financial support of Chicago Blackhawk Charities, Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois, the National Hockey League and other private monetary donations. The incredible generosity of the Illinois hockey community has selflessly donated gently used equipment for our athletes to use. Most notably, the efforts of the Chicago Steel, New Trier Hockey Club and Hinsdale Central Hockey Club have sponsored specific equipment drives for our program.

Testimonials

“My daughter has undergone quite a change during her time in the HIFE program. Not only has her ability to skate improved tremendously, but her confidence has grown at the same time. What a wonderful transformation for parents to witness” -HIFE Parent

“Our son cannot wait to get on the ice! Each class brings a new experience and challenge, and the opportunity to work with so many talented coaches and skaters has motivated him to do his best.”
-HIFE Parent

“Over the years, the AHAI HIFE program has built a foundation of dedication and shared passion. People sign up and fall in love with the concept of equality no matter who you are or where you come from. On the ice, in the eyes of HIFE we are all the same.” -HIFE Parent/Volunteer