Our 
Story

Gear Up Hockey Foundation was created out of a lifelong connection to the game of hockey and a firsthand understanding of how financial barriers can limit opportunity.

Our founder, Anthony Kidd, grew up playing hockey in York, Pennsylvania, starting at the 6U level. Hockey became a central part of his life, teaching discipline, teamwork, and confidence both on and off the ice. Like many families involved in the sport, the cost of equipment was always a challenge. Anthony was raised by a single mother who worked hard and made sacrifices to support his passion for hockey, even when resources were limited.

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As Anthony grew older and remained involved in the sport as both a player and coach, he saw the same challenges repeated across youth hockey programs. Talented and motivated kids were being held back not because of effort or ability but because of the cost of equipment and access to entry-level programs. Too often, families had to choose between participation and affordability.

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Gear Up Hockey Foundation was established to help close that gap. The foundation exists to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent kids from getting on the ice, staying involved in the sport, or continuing to grow through hockey. By supporting equipment access, Learn to Skate and Learn to Play programs, youth camps, and community partnerships, the foundation works to create a more inclusive path into the game.

At its core, Gear Up Hockey Foundation is about opportunity giving kids the chance to play, grow, and belong in the sport they love.