The Chevrolet Safe & Fun Hockey program was born when Bobby Orr, Mike Bossy and Cassie Campbell issued a challenge to all Canadian minor hockey players, parents, coaches and officials to join them in promising to uphold the values of respect and responsibility in minor hockey. Youngsters chosen to participate in this year’s event were selected through a random draw. The program, which is conducted in partnership with Hockey Canada, included on-ice and off-ice lessons from the hockey legends with a focus on skill development, drills, games and safety instruction.

“The Festival is being held to stress to parents, coaches and players the values of respect and responsibility and that positive attitudes towards healthy competition, teamwork, and fair play are just as important to youngsters as the development of hockey skills.” said Fred Lautenschlager, Manager of sponsorship and promotions, GM of Canada.

Hockey legend Orr explains, “I’m worried that many young players never get to experience the pure enjoyment of the game. They are pressured by parents, by coaches, and each other. As parents, coaches, and teammates, it is our responsibility to ensure that everyone leaves the arena with a positive experience to bring them back.

“This program is designed to promote values such as respect and responsibility both on and off the ice at an age where we can leave a lasting impression. And the results speak for themselves. Kids are learning hockey skills, and having fun doing it!” he concluded.

“I always believed that sportsmanship was every bit as important as winning,” noted Bossy, a four-time Stanley Cup champion who had nine 50-goal seasons in the NHL. “Hockey is our national game and our national passion, and we want all those involved in the sport to help ensure its healthy future.”

Campbell is the heroine of Canadian sport and has taken part in three Winter Olympic Games, winning gold (2006 & 2002) and silver (1998). “I believe it is important for every player to have access to the best program in the world for developing values like respect and responsibility while having fun,” she said. “This program sets the foundation for future hockey enjoyment for parents and players.”

Program goals

Since 1999, more than 45,000 children, ages five to nine, have attended Chevrolet Safe & Fun clinics, and more than 400,000 parenting manuals have been distributed to hockey parents. The Chevrolet Safe & Fun Hockey program was created by Orr and General Motors in 1999 to instill the values of respect and responsibility in hockey through on-and off-ice activities.

There are four Chevrolet Safe & Fun Hockey Festivals scheduled across Canada this year.

For more information on the program or to order Chevrolet Safe & Fun “Parents Approach” materials ,call 1-800-GM DRIVE or visit www.safeandfunhockey.ca .