Onbrand

Inspired by two girls, Natalie Van Druff and Lilly Walter (both then 11 years old), who refused to let their beloved hockey rink be demolished and turned into pickleball courts – a hockey dream was born. Pick Up Sticks Hockey Inc. is grassroots hockey organization focused on positive and supportive community play and efforts to Grow the Game of hockey for girls and boys and adults of all ages and abilities.

Originally founded as a pick up hockey group for kids, women, and coed players in Gilbertsville, PA and surrounding areas, Pick Up Sticks Hockey (PUSH) rapidly evolved to take action as a sports advocacy group focused on growing the game and breaking down barriers to playing hockey. PUSH is committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive community for one and all. The original mission of course – was to save and improve the crumbling ball hockey rink at New Hanover Community Park in Gilbertsville, PA (New Hanover Township).

At just 11 years of age, the two girls stood up before a boardroom full of adults at a township meeting in November 2023 to speak and advocate to keep the rink they loved. This resulted in a heartfelt invitation from the township to “Dream Big” – asking the girls to suggest both short-term and long-term improvements to the rink.

And Dream Big they did! The girls continued to show up to speak at meetings and worked tirelessly to reimagine their space, fundraising and hustling to make connections with others who care about kids, hockey, and building something amazing for the community. And then the Philadelphia Flyers and Flyers Charities stepped in, donating $200,000 to rebuild the rink fully brand new, with state-of-the-art flooring tiles, boards, benches, and yes, penalty boxes! The Pottstown Regional Community Foundation partnered with Natalie, Lilly and their team to facilitate the gift and help bring this dream to fruition in the blink of an eye. The stars aligned and the best people and organizations came together to make a dream come true.

Natalie and Lilly learned at a young age how their voices truly make a difference - and now – after extensive work to raise awareness and funds to rebuild the New Hanover Community Park Hockey Dek – the girls and team are celebrating their hockey dream by hosting events to bring people together, inspire active lifestyles, and spread the joy of a sport they love so many others can also find this joy and positive connection in their community.

For more information about PUSH, Natalie, Lilly, and our journey, please see our website and socials:
https://pickupstickshockey.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pickupstickshockey
https://www.instagram.com/pickupstickshockey/
https://www.youtube.com/@PickupSticksHockey