Messier looking for ways to get kids back into the game of hockey
TORONTO — Hockey equipment has come a long way since Mark Messier used magazines as shinpads for a game of road hockey as a kid.
The Hall of Famer hasn’t forgotten those days and is helping lead a campaign to help get children — and their parents — an affordable door into the game.
Hockey Canada, Canadian Tire and Bauer, the iconic equipment maker looking to reclaim its turf after tough financial times, are also involved in the First Shift program, which Messier’s sister helped create.
All of the participants have their reasons for being involved but for Messier the goal is simple — to keep growing Canada’s sport.