The nominations for the Kraft Hockeyville 2024 program are officially open, offering communities across Canada the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game and secure $250,000 for arena upgrades. 

This is Kraft Hockeyville’s 18th year of hosting the program and is partnering with Stanley Cup Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist, and former NHL player and Boston Bruins Captain, Patrice Bergeron, as the official Kraft Hockeyville 2024 program ambassador.

“Like many Canadian hockey fans, my passion and connection to the game started at my local arena,” said Patrice Bergeron. “Even after all these years, it’s those memories I cherish most. I still remember my skates cutting through the fresh ice at the rink in Sillery, while our hometown crowd cheered us on. I’m thrilled to be this year’s Kraft Hockeyville 2024 ambassador to help further ignite the passion of the sport, and proudly advocate and support the next generation of hockey players across the nation.”

Communities eager to nominate their local arena as the next MVP are invited to share their compelling stories before the deadline on February 18 at 11:59 pm EST.

“These stories have helped form the legacy of Kraft Hockeyville, which was exemplified most recently by last year’s winner: West Lorne, ON. As the number of minor hockey registrants grew to record levels, their community was running out of space to provide an accessible space for players. Following their win, West Lorne has already started fulfilling their commitments that include significant upgrades to their infrastructure with new accessible doors and dressing rooms,” stated Kraft Hockeyville in a release. 

“Hockey is the beating heart of many communities across Canada,” said Simon Laroche, President, of Kraft Heinz Canada. “I’m looking forward to hearing from communities and, through their stories, seeing what this game means to them. At its core, that is what Kraft Hockeyville is all about – celebrating the game and those communities across the country. At Kraft Heinz, we’re proud of the significant role we continue to play in helping support the growth and future of Canada’s game.”

Kraft Hockeyville says this year’s winner, and each of the three runner-up communities will also receive $10,000 in brand-new hockey equipment to help more children play the game, courtesy of the NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund.   

Nominations can be made by clicking here.