In  2012, Hockey Night in Brantford (HNIB) was launched.  It began with the Homecoming Game,  created to celebrate Brantford-Brant’s rich hockey heritage,inviting current hometown NHL players, former NHL players, minor hockey players and celebrities for the purpose of raising funds for charity.

By combining our community’s passion for the game of hockey and a wonderful spirit of generosity, HNIB organizers have held 6 events raising over $500,000 in support of local charities. And the best part is, 100 percent of the proceeds go directly to the organizations and all the funds stay within the community.

Local NHLer’s Adam Henrique and Zac Dalpe became the team captains, hoping to lead their teams to victory and win the Speakers Cup, generously donated by  former MPP Dave Levac and Speaker of the Ontario Legislature.

This event has also had the support and participation of notable names like Walter Gretzky, Canada’s most famous Hockey Dad, currentNHL’ers Brandon Montour, former NHLers Doug Jarvis, Pat Hickey, Greg Hickey, Dan Gratton, Paul MacKinnon, Ron Hoover and Jay Wells. Also joining the roster over the years have been TVO’s Steve Paikin and Bruce Boudreau, former professional hockey player and coach, and Olympian Laura Fortino.

Hockey Night in Brantford has been more than just a hockey game, creating a family friendly event, offering lots of entertainment through interactive games, historic Zamboni displays, player autograph signing sessions, on ice contests, stilt walkers and clowns, and  free family skates with players.

After taking a one year hiatus, Hockey Night in Brantford returns this summer with an ENCORE GAME featuring an all-star roster of players, volunteers and sponsors working together in support of another worthy charity – the Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre Connections Campaign.

Hockey Night in Brantford continues to make history and impact the lives of those in need.