It is Hockey Day in America, and NBC, NBCSN, and the NHL are celebrating by broadcasting four hockey games featuring only American teams all day. After spending the past several weeks developing an infographic that charts the growth of American hockey over the past 28 years, I can appreciate that hockey is finally financially viable enough to have a day devoted to the game. During intermissions the league highlighted some of their hockey partners in the country, including adult leagues, youth leagues, and charities that raise money for the children of veterans who may not be able to afford hockey gear.
This day is a great day for me. First of all, I am a huge hockey fan, so a day of hockey is heaven to me. More importantly, this day exemplifies some great public relations initiatives. One of the main reasons that people give for not being able to play hockey is the expense. The NHL made sure to devote time to highlight several charities that provide money to families specifically for hockey. This is not only a great corporate social responsibility initiative, but just like any great PR campaign, it pays off for the NHL as well. If the NHL provides money to kids who otherwise may not be able to play hockey, those kids play hockey. If those kids are good at hockey, those kids get drafted. If those kids get drafted, they play in the National Hockey League. If they play in the National Hockey League, they could be the next Wayne Gretzky. If they are the next Wayne Gretzky then the league can continue to see unprecedented growth across the boards. By creating these charities, the NHL is winning fans, doing good and expanding their own talent pool. So sit back, relax and watch the Minnesota Wild play the Dallas Stars tonight. While you are doing that, don’t forget that you are enjoying Hockey Day in America!
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