Congratulations Estela Rivas-Bryant!

We are thrilled to announce that Estela Rivas-Bryant has won the 2024 Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award in the United States, presented by Discover. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have positively impacted their community, culture, or society through the sport of hockey.

Rivas-Bryant, the founder of The Empowerment Effect, has dedicated over 20 years to coaching youth hockey and now leads The Empowerment Effect, which mentors young girls, providing them with free equipment, coaching, and ice time. As a first-generation Mexican American, she has made a significant impact, especially among Hispanic girls aged 7-16.

The winner was decided through public voting and votes from O'Ree, NHL executives, and Discover executives. Rivas-Bryant's commitment to making every moment on the ice a positive and empowering experience for her players embodies this award's spirit.

If you would like to make an impact as big as Estela's, consider donating to our Willie O’Ree Campaign today. Your contribution to our organization helps us provide our young participants with a hockey season they will never forget.

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Welcome to The Empowerment Effect

Welcome to our empowering community, where the transformative power of ice hockey takes center stage. We bring together 31 enthusiastic participants each season for an unparalleled mentorship and skill development journey. Ice hockey, a sport that has woven its magic into the fabric of countless lives, is the conduit for positive change. Our dedicated volunteers, boasting over 50 years of collective experience ranging from recreational play to college-level competition, impart the game's intricacies and serve as mentors on and off the ice. Join us in embracing the empowerment effect of ice hockey, where camaraderie, skill-building, and life lessons converge to shape a brighter future for all involved.

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Powered By Purpose

Coach Estela speaks to all thing Empowerment.

Join Coach Estela Rivas-Bryant and our dedicated team as we channel our passion for hockey into an exceptional mentorship program for girls. Our impactful work has garnered national recognition, with the National Hockey League naming Estela as a finalist for the prestigious Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award. This honor is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant positive contributions to their community, culture, or society through hockey. Dive into this inspiring interview to learn more about Empowerment and Coach Estela's remarkable journey.

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PlayLA 2024
Aug 30th-Sept 2nd

The Empowerment Effect is thrilled to be back hosting the

2024 PlayLA Ice Hockey Tournament over Labor Day Weekend at The Rinks Lakewood Ice. Last year's tournament was a huge success, and we can't wait to see everyone again. Team registration is now open! Click here for more tournament details!

Registration - Team ($2,590.00),
Individual ($185)

Click here for the League Apps registration walk-through!

Click here for more information!

Mentorship

Our initiative aims to instill lifelong skills and values beyond the ice rink. We strive to offer participants opportunities to explore various career paths, discover new hobbies, and embark on enjoyable field trips. Your support is crucial in making a difference – if volunteering isn't an option, your financial contribution will directly contribute to on-ice and off-ice adventures. These funds can make a profound impact, aiding girls in overcoming life's challenges, such as providing a participant with much-needed glasses when affordability is a barrier. Your generosity can address and transform the often-overlooked yet life-changing aspects.

Donate Today