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Dallas Stars community initiatives reaching kids in Mexico City
Al Montoya, the Vice President of Cultural Growth and Strategy for the Dallas Stars and the NHL's first Cuban-American player, believes that when the Stars are in the postseason, everyone wins, especially the community.
Montoya is committed to expanding the Stars' influence and promoting hockey among underrepresented communities, both locally and internationally. Recently returning from a trip to Mexico City, Montoya sees these ventures as opportunities to demonstrate their dedication and spread the message that hockey is a sport for all.
Their latest initiative includes a Learn to Play program in Mexico City, a six-week course for kids aged four to ten aimed at introducing them to the game. With 50 kids enrolled, in collaboration with the NHL, the program is set to graduate in May, providing children who might not otherwise have had access with the chance to play hockey.
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On the local front, Montoya has partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dallas for the Future Stars initiative. This program introduces hockey to schools and facilities across the region. Since its inception in 2023, the program has expanded from two to nine locations in 2024, offering weekly youth hockey programs in underserved communities, supported with equipment and resources.