Assist26 is a year-long community legacy initiative created to amplify the positive impact of the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship across Minnesota.
Through storytelling, service, and statewide engagement, Assist26 activates the power of hockey to build equity, access, and connection in every corner of the State of Hockey.
Explore Minnesota's hockey heartbeat in the Faces of Hockey mosaic below. Each tile is a fan-submitted photo and 250-character story celebrating our journey to the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Hover to read, zoom to discover—and click "Start your story" to see your own face join the legacy powering Assist26.
Saint Paul and Minneapolis peewee teams faced off in a first-ever Mayor’s Cup, co-hosted with Mayor Melvin Carter and Mayor Jacob Frey. With celebrity coaches and surprise guests, it was a celebration of youth hockey and civic pride. Watch our recap video.
Assist26 participants took the 2025 Polar Plunge, raising more than $6,000 to support inclusive play and year-round programming for Special Olympics athletes.
A personal care drive in partnership with the Minnesota Frost collected essential supplies for families at Tubman’s domestic violence shelters across the state.
