Anchorage schools abandon girls' hockey to cut costs

In 2013, the Anchorage School District in Alaska announced the discontinuation of girls' hockey as a cost-saving measure. This decision prompted a local non-profit to step in, providing temporary funding to sustain the program until the end of the 2015 season. The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation recognized the need for support and intervened with a $200,000 Sports Matter Grant, alongside new equipment for the girls. This financial assistance helped the program overcome significant fundraising challenges, as the operational cost was approximately $80,000 annually. Coaches volunteered their time, indicating the struggle to secure sponsorships and sustainable funding. Fast forward to 2023, Gabi Gibson and Amber Steinhilpert, both alumni of the Anchorage Girls High School Hockey program, returned to contribute positively to the program they once participated in. This gesture was made during the 10th anniversary of The DICK’S Foundation’s Sports Matter program. They presented the team with a substantial $100,000 Sports Matter Grant, which included new gear for the players. Such support signified a crucial change for the program, allowing a potential four to five years of hockey without the imminent threat of funding shortfalls. The emotional reunion highlighted the lasting impact that hockey had on Gibson and Steinhilpert, who conveyed how integral the sport was to their identities and friendships. Both expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities and memories created through their participation in the program. The director of the Anchorage Girls High School Hockey program, Brian Gross, shared his relief at the funding, emphasizing how it mitigated the program's financial burdens and ensured a stable future for aspiring young players. The DICK’S Foundation has emphasized its commitment through ongoing support, showcasing an impactful relationship with initiatives aimed at empowering youth sports, particularly for girls' hockey in Anchorage. This partnership not only helps maintain the sport but also fosters community bonds and provides life-changing experiences for young athletes. The event marked a symbolic representation of giving back to the community, showcasing the importance of sports in shaping lives and creating lasting memories.