Gear Up for the Season – Donate, Swap, and Save!

Are you ready for a new hockey season but your equipment isn’t? Orillia Minor Hockey Association (Orillia MHA) is hosting an Equipment Swap to help our families get the gear they need, give new life to gently used items, and promote sustainability within our hockey community.

Whether your player has outgrown last year’s skates, or you’ve got extra sticks, gloves, or pads that could help another family, this is your chance to swap, save, and support fellow Orillia MHA members. Clean out your closets and make hockey more affordable for everyone!

Event Details

Drop-Off Deadline: Please bring any equipment you wish to donate to the swap by September 14. Early drop-off ensures your items are sorted, displayed, and ready for new players to pick up.  A bin will be set up in the hallway to accept donations

Equipment Swap Dates: The swap will take place on September 17 and 18, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm both days.

Location: Rotary Place 100 University Avenue, Orillia, ON L3V 0B9 

How It Works

·       Step 1 – Donate: Before September 14, bring gently used hockey equipment to the Orillia MHA office. We are accepting skates, helmets, sticks, pads, gloves, and any gear that is still safe and functional.

·       Step 2 – Browse & Swap: On September 17 & 18, stop by between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm to browse the selection. You can take what you need for the upcoming season! There’s no cost; but you can donate to the Mike Dodd foundation.

·       Step 3 – Share the Love: Tell your teammates, neighbours, and friends! The more gear we have, the more families we can help.

Why Participate?

·       Save Money: Hockey equipment can be expensive – swapping helps families get the gear they need without breaking the bank.

·       Build Community: Meet other Orillia MHA families, share stories, and support one another. The swap is a great way to welcome new members and strengthen our hockey community.

·       Be Sustainable: Reusing and recycling gear keeps equipment out of landfills and helps the environment.

What Can I Donate?

·       Hockey skates (all sizes)

·       Helmets (must meet current safety standards)

·       Sticks (youth and adult)

·       Gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards

·       Goalie equipment

·       Practice jerseys, bags, and accessories

Please ensure all equipment is clean and in good condition. Damaged or unsafe gear will not be accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to donate to participate?

No! If you’re in need of equipment, you are welcome to come and see what’s available even if you don’t have items to donate. The goal is to make hockey accessible for everyone.

What happens if I donate but don’t find what I need?

Donations are voluntary and there’s no guarantee of availability for specific items or sizes. Any equipment you donate will help another family and support the Orillia MHA community.

Can I donate after September 14?

We encourage early drop-offs so items can be sorted and displayed, but if you have gear to donate after the deadline, please reach out to the Orillia MHA office to see if we can accommodate your donation.

Who can participate in the swap?

The event is open to all Orillia MHA families and members. If you’re part of our hockey community, we welcome you!

How will the swap be organized?

Our volunteers will organize items by type and size, making it easy to find what you need. Volunteers will be available to answer questions and help with fitting if necessary.

Volunteer Opportunities

We couldn’t run this event without our amazing volunteers! If you’d like to help with setup, sorting, or assisting families during the swap, please email us at [email protected].

Contact Us

For questions or more information, reach out to Orillia MHA through our website or email us at [email protected]. Stay tuned for updates and reminders on our social media channels!

Let’s Make Hockey Happen for Everyone!

The Equipment Swap is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community and teamwork. By donating and participating, you’re helping to ensure every child has the chance to play the game they love. Thank you for supporting Orillia MHA and making hockey accessible for all.

See you at the swap!