NHL StreetTM Joins the LA Kings to Support Skate for LA Strong
When wildfires devastated greater Los Angeles, the city responded the way it always does—together. This past week, the LA Kings hosted Skate for LA Strong at Crypto.com Arena, bringing first responders, NHL alumni, celebrities, and fans to rally behind relief efforts and give back to the community.
Hockey has always been more than just a game, and this event was a testament to its power to unite and uplift. From the ice to the streets, it was a day that showed how the sport can make a lasting impact—whether you’re playing, watching, or simply being part of something bigger.
“The NHL is honored to be able to support the LA Kings in this event that provides young kids and their families some fun, laughs, and to take their minds away briefly from the tragedy they have recently endured,” said Jeff Scott, Vice President of Community Development & Industry Growth at the NHL.
Street Hockey at the Heart of Fan Fest
Before the main event, Fan Fest set the stage for a new generation of hockey players. With over 1,000 attendees filling the space, NHL StreetTM was at the center of the action, providing a street hockey rink, ball hockey games, and skill challenges that gave kids a hands-on hockey experience—no skates, no ice, just play.
More than 300 kids stepped onto the rink—many for the first time—and the fast-paced, accessible format made it easy for them to jump in and play.
“NHL Street is a community-based initiative,” said Tom Garavaglia, Director of NHL StreetTM at RCX Sports. “We couldn’t be more proud to assist the Kings in supporting their community through NHL Street when they need it most. It has been tremendous to see LA come together through the game of hockey to support one another.”
Expanding Hockey’s Reach in LA
At its core, NHL StreetTM exists to make hockey more accessible, fun, and community-driven—and in Los Angeles, that mission aligns perfectly with what the Kings are building.
“The LA Kings are very excited to partner with NHL Street to make the game more accessible than ever before for youth in Los Angeles,” said Ryan Chu-Tachikawa, Community Hockey Development and Events Supervisor at the LA Kings. “Our goal is to partner with various organizations to create leagues throughout LA County, so the next generation of Kings fans get exposed to the sport and fall in love with the game. Whether it’s played on the ice or on the blacktop, kids will experience the thrill of our game while learning important life skills like teamwork and hard work. We can’t wait to get started and are looking forward to working with local operators to grow the game of hockey together.”
Through partnerships like this, hockey continues to reach more kids, more communities, and more future players.
Creating Opportunities Through Street Hockey
The impact of Skate for LA Strong wasn’t just about the funds raised or the games played—it was about opening doors for kids who might not otherwise have had the chance to experience hockey.
In the weeks leading up to Skate for LA Strong, the LA Kings worked with LA Care Camps and the Red Cross to bring ball hockey to youth who were affected by the fires. For many of these kids, it was their first experience with the sport.
Programs like NHL StreetTM and community outreach efforts like this ensure that hockey isn’t just confined to the rink—it’s a sport that can be played anywhere, by anyone.
Get Involved
Hockey is for everyone—no matter where or how it’s played. With a growing presence in Los Angeles and across the country, NHL StreetTM is committed to bringing more kids into the game, breaking down barriers, and making hockey something every community can be a part of.
Want to join or start a league in your community? Learn more:
Find a League | Start a League
