Winnipeg, MB – PLAY Hockey announced today that they have entered into a strategic marketing collaboration agreement with YardRink, LLC, the fastest growing backyard rink brand in North America.

A leading youth hockey event management provider, PLAY Hockey shares YardRink’s passion for expanding the game of hockey.  YardRink is committed to providing increased access to ice time and has secured relationships with the game’s premiere league and most recognized player to advance its mission – being named an Official Licensed Product of the NHL and welcoming NHL Legend Wayne Gretzky as YardRink Ambassador. 

PLAY Hockey and YardRink will work together to leverage exposure to over 100,000 youth hockey players through PLAY Hockey's events, teams and digital marketing to dramatically accelerate the expansion of backyard and street hockey in the U.S. and Canada.

“We are thrilled to create this strategic marketing alliance with PLAY, a premier experiential youth hockey event organization, to expand hockey participation throughout North America,” said Brian Packard, YardRink’s CEO. “The kids that attend PLAY’s popular hockey events are also those who most want to set up rinks in their back yards to hone their skills and just enjoy some unstructured time on the ice.”

“PLAY Hockey is committed to partnering with best-in-class brands who believe in delivering memorable experiences just like we do through our events,” said Rhys van Kemenade, PLAY Hockey’s Chief Hockey Officer. “YardRink is a very popular product amongst our athletes and their families, and we share the vision of YardRink to foster and expand the love of hockey.”

 About PLAY Hockey

PLAY Hockey is a global leader in youth hockey, providing memorable experiences to more than 100,000 youth hockey players at 105 events. Event management solutions are also available to associations and hockey organizations. PLAY Hockey is focused on providing best-in-class experiences for players, families and community partners to build friendships, have fun and create memories that last a lifetime. Learn more about the organization at www.playhockey.com

About YardRink LLC

YardRink manufactures and sells outdoor ice hockey and street hockey rinks that are official licensed products of the NHL, each designed for optimum performance and playability. With headquarters in North Andover, Massachusetts and manufacturing operations in Clinton, Iowa, YardRink is the fastest growing backyard rink brand in North America. The Company offers hockey rink kits for any size yard or community space through its website, www.YardRink.com and select retail outlets. YardRink was founded with one goal: to create joy. By providing unlimited access to the thrill of outdoor skating time, YardRink aims to foster and expand the love of hockey.