Penticton’s junior hockey community is getting a financial boost, with the Penticton Jr. Vees selected for a national sponsorship program supporting young players.
The team is among 150 minor hockey teams across Canada chosen for the third annual RONA Rookies program, which aims to make hockey more accessible for children and teenagers.
The Penticton under-11 team will receive a sponsorship package valued at $3,000, including a $1,000 grant to help cover tournament costs or other team activities.
The package also includes team apparel featuring the RONA logo and fan accessories to encourage team spirit.
RONA launched the program in 2024 to support minor hockey teams with players aged four to 17, including children and grandchildren of members of its network.
“Hockey has deep roots in Canada’s communities. It helps generations come together, creates bonds and brings energy to environments where young people grow and thrive. Through the RONA Rookies program, we are proud to support families and communities that bring the sport to life across the country and help more kids and teens fully enjoy their season,” said Catherine Laporte, chief digital and marketing officer at RONA Inc.
The Penticton Jr. Vees are among seven B.C. teams selected for the 2026-27 season, alongside teams from Kamloops, Squamish, Surrey, Maple Ridge, Chilliwack and Nanaimo.
The sponsorship is intended to help ease some of the costs associated with minor hockey while supporting opportunities for young athletes to participate in the sport.
