In a move that blends community outreach with grassroots sports promotion, the Pittsburgh Penguins have teamed up with Pittsburgh Public Schools to distribute free preseason tickets to every student in the district. The program, now in its fourth year, is designed to spark interest in hockey among young fans who might otherwise never set foot inside PPG Paints Arena.
Students will receive vouchers for complimentary food and drinks from Aramark, the arena's food service partner, and can attend the preseason matchups slated for Monday, September 21 against the Buffalo Sabres and Tuesday, September 22 against the Detroit Red Wings. The games serve as a gateway for newcomers to experience the speed, tradition and excitement of professional hockey.
Tracey McCants Lewis, the Penguins’ chief legal and community affairs officer, emphasized the program’s purpose: “We want to introduce kids to hockey and encourage attendance,” she said, noting that the initiative targets students who may not have previously visited the arena.
The effort underscores a broader commitment to inclusivity, with the Penguins repeatedly stating that “hockey is for everyone.” By delivering tickets and promotional materials through school emails and flyers during the back‑to‑school drive, the partnership ensures that the opportunity reaches a wide and diverse audience.
Expanding Access to Hockey
Over the past four years, the Penguins and PPS have built a sustainable pipeline that not only introduces the sport to new fans but also cultivates a sense of belonging among youth. The program’s emphasis on free access removes financial barriers, while the inclusion of food vouchers adds a welcoming, family‑friendly element to the arena experience.
School officials report that the distribution of tickets and flyers has been seamless, with Guardians receiving the materials in advance of the back‑to‑school period. This coordinated approach helps ensure that every student, regardless of background, can claim a seat and enjoy a night of live hockey.