The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today Play it Forward is returning for the 2024 season. The program will provide youth from local Indigenous communities with unique Tiger-Cats experiences, including game tickets and mentorship opportunities with players.

The program is highlighted by Play it Forward Day on July 23 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., where approximately 150 Indigenous youth from the local area are invited to Tim Hortons Field to participate in a mix of football drills and other activities led by Tiger-Cats players, the Dance and Cheer team, and special guest coaches including Tiger-Cats alumnus John Macdonald, who is Mohawk, Wolf clan from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory.

“Play it Forward is a key community program for Hamilton Sports Group and is a great opportunity to get our players involved with our local Indigenous communities. We’re excited to see the kids come out and have a great experience at Tim Hortons Field alongside their favourite Ticats and some special guests.” Said Courtney Stephen, Senior Director of Marketing, of Hamilton Sports Group.

Play it Forward Day also features lacrosse coach Kevin Sandy, who belongs to the Lower Cayuga Nation, Wolf Clan, Haudenosaunee and First Tee Canada, a youth development program that provides children with life-enhancing experiences through golf.

“LiUNA Local 837 is proud be returning as presenting partners of Play it Forward alongside the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. We are excited to contribute and help provide local Indigenous youth with opportunity, team building, mentorship exercises and local experiences through this outstanding program.” said Riccardo Persi, Business Manager, LiUNA Local 837.

Transportation to and from the event will be provided and all the youth in attendance will receive Play it Forward t-shirts and tickets to the Tiger-Cats home game on August 2 vs. Montreal and a Forge FC home match courtesy of LiUNA.