From the Rink to the Community: CoachThem’s Impact with Ronald McDonald House

Every coach knows that hockey is more than a game, it's about community, compassion, and coming together when it matters most. This September, CoachThem was proud to stand alongside the Ronald McDonald House Charity Golf Tournament in Thunder Bay for an initiative that extended our impact far beyond the rink. Together with hockey associations, families, and the community, this event wasn’t just about golf or hockey - it was about making a difference where it mattered most.

A 27-Year Legacy of Support

The Ronald McDonald House Charity Golf Tournament has honored Jordin Jewel Cryderman's memory for 27 years while supporting families in Northwestern Ontario. This year alone, the tournament raised over $142,553 for families when they need it most. Tournament founders Alex and Cindy Cryderman share: "Twenty-seven years ago, we started this tournament to honour the memory of our beautiful daughter, Jordin Jewel Cryderman, by helping others have the support they need in such unthinkable times."

Reflecting on Community Impact

Thunder Bay has always held a special place in the hockey world, producing countless NHL players and serving as a hub for grassroots development. By contributing registration fees from our Hockey Association Platform during September, CoachThem joined in carrying that same spirit of giving back. The results speak volumes—not only did associations gain access to world-class coaching tools, but their registrations translated into direct support for families through the Ronald McDonald House. What began as an opportunity to strengthen coaching also became a chance to strengthen the community.

Founded by Hockey People

CoachThem was created by former NHLer Mike Weaver—a coach who understands association challenges. He built the platform to solve real problems: inconsistent practice planning, poor coach communication, and maintaining development standards. "When you add the opportunity to support families through Ronald McDonald House, it becomes about something much bigger than hockey," says Mike Weaver.

Looking Ahead

This September proved that when hockey comes together, its reach extends far beyond the rink. The partnership with the Ronald McDonald House Charity Golf Tournament showed what’s possible when sport and community unite for a cause. We’re grateful to every association and coach who played a role in this initiative. Your commitment to improving the game became a lifeline for families during their most difficult moments. Though the registration window for this campaign has closed, the impact lives on. Together, we built stronger hockey programs while ensuring no family faces their toughest days alone.