RBC Insurance leads search for Canada's most dedicated
hockey volunteersThirteen regional RBC Local Hockey Leaders® to be recognized in the Hockey Hall of Fame and awarded $10,000 each for hockey in their community
TORONTO, November 1, 2006 — RBC Insurance, with
support from Hockey Canada and the Hockey Hall of Fame, today
announced the launch of its annual nationwide search for outstanding
hockey volunteers.
"Canada's hockey volunteers don't do it for the recognition,
but we believe it is important to acknowledge them,"
said Neil Skelding, president and CEO, RBC Insurance. "For
the past three years the RBC Local Hockey Leaders program
has applauded these behind-the-scenes hockey volunteers who
dedicate their time to support grassroots hockey in their
community. We're proud to continue this tradition."
Regional winners, one from each of the 13 Hockey Canada geographical
branches, will receive $10,000 towards a registered charity/hockey
cause in their community, special recognition in the Hockey
Hall of Fame and a signed Team Canada jersey. One RBC employee
winner will also be recognized.
"Thanks to the RBC Local Hockey Leaders program, we
are able to properly recognize the efforts of these important
Canadians, who are the backbone of minor hockey in Canada,"
said Bill Hay, Chairman, Hockey Hall of Fame. "RBC Insurance
is investing in Canadian communities through hockey, and we
are happy to be a part of this effort."
Over the past three years RBC Insurance has awarded more
than $350,000 to grassroots hockey activities across Canada
through the RBC Local Hockey Leaders program. Grants have
been used to establish equipment sharing programs, make hockey
more accessible, improve infrastructure and for a myriad of
other causes close to the hearts of Canada's grassroots hockey
leaders.
"Look around your hockey community and nominate the
people that most deserve this award, because without these
people, hockey simply would not happen," said Bob Nicholson,
president, Hockey Canada. "These leaders may coach teams,
shovel outdoor rinks, organize team fundraising, or teach
hockey and life skills - things that make hockey such an important
component of community life in Canada."
A panel including National Women's Team member Jennifer Botterill,
National Men's Sledge Hockey Team assistant captain Jean Labonté,
hockey legend Ron Ellis and Hockey Canada officials will select
winners from nominations submitted through the program website.
Nominations will be accepted until midnight (E.S.T.) January
31, 2007. To nominate a dedicated minor hockey volunteer from
your area, go to www.rbcinsurance.com.
RBC Local Hockey Leaders are the behind-the-scenes volunteers
who make hockey a positive, safe, and enjoyable activity in
their communities. Hard work, dependability, enthusiasm and
leadership will be amongst the criteria considered when evaluating
submissions.
About RBC Insurance
RBC Insurance provides a wide range of creditor, life, health,
travel, home, auto and reinsurance products and services to
more than five million clients in Canada, the U.S. and internationally.
These products and services are offered through a wide variety
of distribution channels, including the telephone, independent
brokers, travel agents, a proprietary sales force and the
Internet. More information is available at www.rbcinsurance.com.
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For further information, please contact:
Brian Findlay or Bob Stellick, 416-603-9452
Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada Communications, 403-777-4556
Jackie Braden, Media Relations, RBC, 416-974-2124
Kelly Masse, Hockey Hall of Fame, 416-933-8212
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