You hear stories about the camaraderie, the family atmosphere, the memories and most importantly the lives that have changed because of the good old hockey game. People that have either played in their youth or all the way up to the Olympics have stories about how “so and so” changed their life, or how this coach made an impact. Maybe it was a tale about that tournament stay in a hotel with all of their friends. Remember that one time … etc. Here is a time when that was taken to the next level.
In the fall of 2014, two ambitious young wo
men wanted to give back to the game and the community that had impacted them greatly during their lives. They had an awesome idea of helping young women and girls play hockey by working to remove the financial barriers keeping them from the game. Sasha Podolchak and Danielle Grundy started on the mission of the Grindstone Award Foundation by filing to become a registered charity in December of 2014. A dream that finally came to completion that following year.
The foundation has continued to grow since 2014, and sent waves across Canada with their mission of providing grants to young girls who would otherwise not be able to afford to play this great game of hockey. By fundraising, taking donations, and sponsorships they are able to help them reach their dream of lacing up the skates and playing. In August of 2015 they provided their first sponsorship of a player. As of October 2020, they have helped 100 female athletes play and they have no intention of slowing down.
The financial burden of playing hockey should not be something to keep someone from playing hockey, but unfortunately the financial burden is not the only one having a negative impact on keeping the female game advancing. “Sexism, plain and simple” is another huge barrier women and young girls face. “It’s unfortunate that in 2020, we are still having the conversation, but we refuse to let it stop us” commented Grindstone when we asked them what the biggest barrier was next to financial. Grindstone is inspired by recent events and corporations getting behind the movement to advance equality in women’s sports. But, without sharing those stories and 
celebrating the success of women in sports, the movement will quickly fade away. Grindstone also responded that “If young females at the grassroots level can’t even afford access to hockey, or another sport they desire to participate in, because of financial reasons, then the momentum being built currently will be lost.”
Recently we have seen some powerful movement within the female hockey community. Blake Bolden and Cammi Granato signing on as scouts for National Hockey League teams, to the recent announcement that Kendall Coyne will be joining the coaching staff of the Chicago Blackhawks, there has been significant reason to celebrate. But without people to cheer them on, share the news with their friends and families and hockey communities it will fade away. Part of the strategy at Grindstone is sharing the success stories of women in sport in order to help grow the female game at the grassroots level.
“We can’t even count how many times we’ve been brought to tears by a kid’s story and how hockey has changed their lives for the better, both on and off the ice. But we wouldn't be here without everyone who has supported us.” A grateful response when asked simply why they do what they do. To know that young hockey players across the country are willing to donate their time and their own allowance to help another girl play helps restore faith in humanity. Adults that donate their time to help spread the word and help raise funds for the foundation, only proves that there is a movement and a passion to continue the drive.
Obviously one can help the Grindstone Award Foundation with monetary
donations, it is the easiest way you can make an impact in a young person's life. To help even ONE more girl at the grassroots level take the ice is worth it. When you first land on the Grindstone website (grindstoneaward.com) you are greeted by a simple, yet profound message, “Help us, Help Her Play.” With an option for individuals to either donate, or organizations to sponsor. However, that is only ONE way you can help. You can help by following them on social media, sharing their content, signing up for their newsletter, and visiting their website and sharing it with your friends and family. You tell 10 people, they tell 10 people and so on!
Most importantly in Grindstone’s words, “Finally, be an advocate and ally for females in sport — whether that is an athlete or a business professional working behind the scenes. Share their stories with young females in your life to let them know that sport is not just a way to create positive experiences. It can be a career path, or a way to give back to their community as a volunteer when they are an adult.” One thing that really
inspires us at Gurl Power is that even though Grindstone is their own foundation, they truly believe in the greater good and don’t just stop with hockey, But they support women in sports and in life. Believing that equal work should lead to equal opportunity. Believing in empowering young girls that if they want something, work hard for it and achieve it. Break down the barriers and the walls, Athletically, scholastically, and professionally.
“The mission of the Grindstone Award Foundation is to provide opportunities to ALL young female hockey players who have a desire to play, but are unable to for financial reasons. However, at this point in our growth, we are only able to award grants that assist with hockey registration fees within Canada. Our vision is to one day be able to provide grants across North America.” We hope that soon they are able to either partner with or branch out into the United States, but by simply raising awareness in Canada, They are also raising awareness and sharing stories across the United States.
If you are interested in donating, becoming a corporate sponsor, or know a young lady that could use the financial help, send them over to the Grindstone website. The deadline for grant applications is during the summer and award recipients are often notified Mid-August when the board of directors finishes reviewing the applications.