Kings Energy proudly takes on new role in the Lloydminster community

Kings Energy Group has committed to be the title sponsor of the Lakeland College Rustlers women's hockey team during its inaugural season. This grassroots initiative to bring women's collegiate hockey to the region has been realized thanks to the incredible support of Kings Energy Group and other generous sponsors, says Alan Rogan, Lakeland's director of athletics.

"This academic year, the Lakeland College Rustlers welcomes women's hockey to our roster. We're thrilled that Kings Energy Group has invested in our student-athletes and our program and proud to be named the Lakeland College Kings Energy Group Rustlers Hockey Club," says Rogan.

The Lakeland College Kings Energy Group Rustlers Hockey Club will compete in the Alberta Junior Female Hockey League this season. Lakeland has applied to compete in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference next season, making it Lloydminster's premier level of women's hockey.  But, for Kings Energy, it's not just about supporting competitive hockey.

"At Kings we are thrilled to help support an important new chapter in women's hockey in Lloydminster.  Higher education and character development speak even louder than hockey, and a program like this puts it all together. Coach Morgan Mann's leadership has assembled a team that reflects the diversity of the region, and he has already created some bold community partnerships. I'm very confident that these young women, through this program, will go on to do very special things beyond hockey, and frankly, that's what excites me the most about our contribution," said Darren King, President of Kings Energy Group.

The team focuses on the bigger picture and the long-term effects of the hockey program. This big picture includes spending time in communities like Flying Dust First Nation, where the team hosted its first hockey school with over 50 participants. The team also advocates for an inclusive environment, providing a space of safety and support for youth of all backgrounds. Having four of this year's team roster having played on the 2020/2021 Saskatchewan Indigenous U18 Team has created an excellent opportunity to change mindsets and aid in reconciliation work. Not only does this team make every effort to extend a helping hand across the region, but you may recognize them from for volunteering locally with the Grace United Church Food Hamper Program.

The opportunity to play hockey and receive a post-secondary education simultaneously wasn't a possibility for many women until the Alberta Junior Female Hockey League was formed in 2009. Now women, like the goaltender, Janae Neufeld from Duck Lake, Sask., can play a sport she is passionate about while completing her university education to reach her goal of becoming a nurse.

Mann is excited about the new venture alongside Kings Energy Group. "We are so thankful to Kings for really believing in what we're doing with this team. They've recognized it's not just about playing hockey; it's about supporting the community and the mission behind the cause. We are thrilled to partner with someone who wants to do more than the sport of hockey. We're honoured to carry the Kings Energy Group name with the team and will wear it with pride this upcoming season."

Article Courtesy of Red Bicycle Communications