Jenn Gardiner brings hockey camp to Surrey to inspire next-generation players
The Vancouver Goldeneyes player and former Surrey resident hosted JG12, a three-day girls' hockey camp for ages 11–15, with around 80 registered participants.
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Jenn Gardiner, a Vancouver Goldeneyes player and former Surrey resident, launched her first-ever hockey camp in her hometown on Friday, July 3. The all-female JG12 camp, running through July 5 at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, drew around 80 registered girls aged 11 to 15, split into three divisions: U11, U13, and U15.
Some participants showed up before the rink even opened, reflecting the excitement surrounding the camp. "They're all smiling, just having such a good time, and it means so much for me to be able to give back to the community, and continue to use my platform to inspire, and hopefully motivate these girls to follow their dreams," Gardiner said.
Coaches included Vancouver Goldeneyes players Hannah Miller, Mannon McMahon, and Malia Schneider, as well as Ottawa Charge's Jenna Buglioni, Montreal Victoire's Sandra Abstreiter, and Matt Brown from Next Up Hockey. They ran drills on skating, puck control, passing, and shooting.
The Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex holds particular significance for Gardiner—it's the rink where she grew up playing. The facility has one of her jerseys on display as a former Surrey Falcon. Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke attended the first day to watch her granddaughter participate in the U13 division. Notably, one of the mayor's daughters had coached Gardiner as a young player, creating a full-circle moment.
Registration was $400 for skaters and $275 for goalies, with each participant receiving a camp jersey, hoodie, hat, and swag bag. Gardiner said she hopes to return to Surrey next year after hosting the camp in Richmond last year.
