ALLEN PARK, Mich. (Aug. 13, 2008) — Belle Tire Distributors Inc. and Warrior Sports have partnered to co-sponsor the Belle Tire Hockey Club.
The Allen Park-based tire and windshield repair and replacement retailer has supported the club since its inception in 1997.
Warrior Sports, a hockey equipment manufacturer in Warren, Mich., will assist the Belle Tire hockey program by subsidizing travel and equipment costs, which will help players on the club's 27 travel teams, eight house teams and novice hockey program.
“This is a great example of two local companies coming together to give back to the community,” said Don Barnes III, operations and marketing manager for Belle Tire who also is director of the Belle Tire Hockey Club.
Belle Tire also formed a partnership with the city of Taylor, Mich., and the Taylor Sportsplex. Belle's club players will call the Taylor facility their home for practice and games.
The complex features two National Hockey League-sized hockey rinks.
“Michigan's youth hockey registration numbers are among the highest in the nation, and the state hosts prestigious travel programs that earn consistent national success at every age level,” said David Morrow, CEO of Warrior Sports. “We believe every kid should have an opportunity to play a sport, and Belle Tire's hockey club provides a fun, safe and competitive environment for youth to learn skills and develop their athletic talents.”