The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) recently introduced a groundbreaking Girls Hockey Initiative, appointing Danielle Serdachny, a distinguished member of Team Canada, as its inaugural female ambassador. This initiative forms a pivotal component of the Every Kid Deserves a Shot program, aimed at bolstering support for girls in hockey, enhancing sustainability, and promoting accessibility through a range of dedicated programs.
EOCF’s executive director, Myrna Khan, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative, emphasizing Danielle Serdachny’s integral role in leveraging hockey’s power to inspire and empower 100,000 youth across Oil Country. The initiative not only aims to nurture young talent but also seeks to fortify the foundations of girls’ hockey for long-term viability.
In her new capacity as a hockey ambassador for girls, Serdachny articulated her aspirations for the role, underscoring the significance of representation in sports for young girls. She acknowledged the existing challenges and stereotypes in women’s sports, particularly in traditionally male-dominated arenas like hockey, stressing the importance of visible role models at various levels of the sport.
According to Serdachny, having visible female role models enables young girls to envision themselves as hockey players and nurtures their aspirations in the sport. Her appointment signifies a step towards breaking down barriers and inspiring a new generation of female athletes to pursue their hockey dreams.
Kylee Quinn, the director of marketing and communications for Hockey Edmonton, echoed these sentiments, praising Serdachny’s achievements as a source of inspiration for aspiring female players. Quinn emphasized the significance of Serdachny’s mentorship, highlighting its potential to foster inclusivity and provide a strong female perspective in coaching and leadership within hockey.
Serdachny’s appointment as the EOCF’s first female ambassador marks a significant milestone in promoting gender equality and empowerment in hockey. Her leadership is poised to make a profound impact by encouraging more girls to participate in hockey, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future within the sport. This initiative not only celebrates Serdachny’s accomplishments but also underscores the commitment of the EOCF to championing diversity and opportunity in hockey across communities in Oil Country.
Leave a Reply