TOKYO – Hockey Canada, USA Hockey and Bauer Hockey are teaming up to donate 150 sets of equipment to help children with the Japan Ice Hockey Federation get back into the game and onto the ice.

This much-needed support for minor hockey across Japan is being offered to families as they continue to recover from the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that destroyed infrastructure in many northeastern coastal communities and devastated the eastern Asian country in March 2011.

“In difficult times, sports can play a large role in helping communities, families and children recover,” Hockey Canada president and CEO Bob Nicholson said. “We are very proud to partner with USA Hockey and Bauer Hockey to make this rewarding program possible for the Japan Ice Hockey Federation.”

“We're pleased to join in helping the young people of Japan," said Dave Ogrean, executive director of USA Hockey. "Together with our friends at Hockey Canada and Bauer, we hope to make a small difference in recovery efforts through this outreach effort.”

“Our hope is to help continue the return to normalcy for families and communities who are rebuilding their lives and neighborhoods after such a devastating tragedy,” said Kevin Davis, president and CEO of Bauer Performance Sports. “Our partnership with USA Hockey and Hockey Canada could help make that small difference in the lives of children as they re-connect with recreation and sports they enjoy, and we’re happy to be a part of this positive step for Japan.”

This unique initiative by Hockey Canada, USA Hockey and Bauer came about after discussions with Shoichi Tomita, IIHF Vice President and chairman of the IIHF Asian Oceanic and Development Committees, and delegates from the Japan Ice Hockey Federation over the past season, as the three groups based in North America looked for a way to support their sister IIHF national association in a time of need.

Tomita and the representatives from the Japanese federation felt their most pressing need was hockey equipment for children.

The 150 sets of equipment will be delivered to the Japan Ice Hockey Federation over the coming weeks.

– with files from Hockey Canada