A Summer of Growth on the Ice
The Vancouver Canucks opened their doors to the next generation of hockey enthusiasts this summer, staging the Junior Canucks Hockey Camp at Rogers Arena and the adjacent Rogers Forum. The week‑long program welcomed children between seven and eleven, offering a blend of on‑ice drills, competitive play and a slate of off‑ice sessions.
Presented by KPMG, the camp was overseen by Coach Greg Schell, who assembled a team of Canucks staff, alumni and local mentors to guide the participants. Guest appearances from NHL net‑minder Thatcher Demko and forward Chase Wouters added star power, while fan favourite FIN made a surprise visit that delighted the campers.
Life Skills on the Ice
The schedule combined traditional hockey fundamentals with broader athletic development. Off‑ice modules tackled strength, agility, nutrition and team‑building, while a D.R.E.A.M. framework — discipline, respect, excellence, attitude, mindset — reinforced personal growth. Lacrosse basics were introduced by Vancouver Warriors forwards Adam Charalambides and Curtis Dickson, alongside Team BC Junior Girls coach Debbie Phillips, highlighting the benefits of cross‑sport agility.
Beyond skill work, the camp emphasized versatility and the joy of trying new activities. By weaving lacrosse drills into the hockey curriculum, organizers illustrated how movement skills translate across sports, encouraging campers to embrace experimentation and maintain a well‑rounded athletic identity.
The final day culminated in a five‑on‑five scrimmage that showcased the participants’ progress, followed by a celebration of sportsmanship and teamwork. Parents and coaches alike noted the noticeable shift in confidence and camaraderie, underscoring the camp’s dual focus on athletic prowess and character building.