From Texas to Mexico City: Dallas Stars Score Big with Community Outreach

The Dallas Stars are a force to be reckoned with on the ice, currently battling it out in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But their dedication to the game extends far beyond the rink. Under the leadership of Vice President of Cultural Growth and Strategy, Al Montoya, the Stars are making a significant impact on communities both locally and internationally.

Montoya, a trailblazer as the first Cuban-American player in the NHL, is passionate about ensuring hockey isn't just for a select few. He believes the sport's spirit of teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition can benefit kids from all backgrounds. This season, the Stars set their sights on a new frontier – Mexico City.

"We recently visited Mexico City, and we're gearing up for another trip soon," shared Montoya, his enthusiasm contagious. "For us, it's a chance to showcase what we've been doing and spread the message loud and clear: hockey is a game for everyone, no matter where you come from!"

The Stars' mission in Mexico City is simple yet powerful: to introduce the sport to a whole new generation of potential players. This past April, they launched a special "Learn to Play" program. Imagine the excitement of 50 youngsters, aged 4 to 10, stepping onto the ice for the very first time! This six-week program is more than just learning how to skate and hold a stick – it's about fostering a love for the sport, creating lasting memories, and giving these kids a chance to discover a hidden talent.

The program is a shining example of collaboration, a joint effort between the Stars and the National Hockey League. It proves that hockey truly transcends borders, cultures, and languages. The excitement is palpable, not just among the kids participating but also within the Stars organization.

Closer to home, the Stars are also making waves in their own backyard. Partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dallas, they've expanded their highly successful "Future Stars" initiative. This free program brings the magic of hockey directly to schools and community centers in underserved areas.

Remember those iconic scenes from movies where kids huddle on makeshift rink surfaces in disadvantaged neighborhoods, using whatever they can find to create a hockey game? The Future Stars program aims to turn those dreams into reality. From a humble beginning of just two locations in 2023, the program has exploded in popularity, expanding to a whopping nine locations this year! This growth is a testament to the program's impact.

These locations receive crucial support from the Stars, including essential equipment and expert guidance. This allows them to run weekly hockey sessions, introducing a sport that might otherwise seem out of reach to many kids. You never know – the next hockey superstar might be lacing up their skates for the first time at a Future Stars session!

Montoya recognizes the importance of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in fueling this community outreach. The excitement surrounding the playoffs isn't just about the games themselves; it creates a buzz that translates directly into increased fan engagement. This, in turn, benefits the Stars Foundation, the organization's charitable arm.

A big part of this fundraising effort is the 50/50 raffle held at Stars home games. Here's how it works: fans rally behind the team while supporting a good cause. They purchase raffle tickets, and half of the total pot goes directly to the Stars Foundation. These funds become game-changers, supporting youth hockey programs, community initiatives, and health and education programs across North Texas.

So, the next time you hear the cheers erupt at a Stars game, remember – it's not just about the team battling it out on the ice. It's about the future stars waiting in the wings, the kids in Mexico City experiencing the joy of hockey for the first time, and the countless young people in Dallas who are discovering a passion thanks to the Stars Foundation. The Dallas Stars are proving that hockey is more than just a sport – it's a powerful force for good, bringing communities together, fostering positive development, and creating a brighter future for generations to come.