Small Ponds, Big Goals

Conserving the future of hockey, one small pond at a time.

Ted's quote

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Share your shinny story

Growing up playing shinny on a frozen pond is a core Canadian experience rooted in water on the landscape facilitated by healthy wetlands.

That’s why, as Canada’s largest nature conservancy, Ducks Unlimited Canada is excited to team up with players and fans of our most beloved and iconic game to celebrate the contribution ponds and wetlands make to our culture, community, environment, and our national sport!

We’re inviting supporters to tell us what small ponds and wetlands in their community have meant to them and to share stories of playing on them for a chance to win!

Ducks Unlimited Canada celebrates community and connection to nature through pond hockey at the 2024 Legends Classic.

Read the stories

Ducks Unlimited Canada and the NHL are teaming up to tell stories of current and former NHL players and how access to community ponds and the outdoors helped shape their love for the sport.

Phil and Tony Esposito

The Esposito brothers began their road to the Hockey Hall of Fame by playing on frozen ponds in the great outdoors.

Joe Juneau

Joe Juneau's two passions, hockey and the great outdoors, have always held a special place in his life, and the two have been closely linked before, during, and after his career in the NHL.

By fostering pond hockey through healthy wetlands, we are passing a love of the game and the outdoors to the next generations of athletes and conservators.

Help Ducks Unlimited Canada continue safeguarding natural spaces by becoming a recurring member. For as little as $5 per month (or $60 per year), your donation can help steward an area of wildlife habitat larger than the average house.

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Our Connection to nature unites us

Often, shinny games are held outdoors on ponds and wetlands, immersing players in the beauty of nature while building a connection and appreciation of Canada’s natural landscapes during winter.

Tradition

Shinny is a deeply ingrained part of the Canadian experience. Many Canadians are introduced to hockey by playing informal games on frozen ponds and wetlands, fostering a love for the sport from a young age – or first introduction.

Inclusivity

Shinny requires very little equipment beyond a stick and a puck, making it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. This allows more people to participate in hockey without the barriers of organized leagues or expensive gear.

Community

Shinny games can bring together neighbours and friends, strengthening community bonds. They create a sense of camaraderie and shared experience, which is integral to the Canadian experience.

Skills Development

Playing shinny helps develop athletic skills and fosters creativity and personal style in gameplay. This can build confidence and open doors to new opportunities.