Brantford Bulldogs Inspire Grand Erie Students at Inaugural Skills and Learning Day

Monday, Dec 01, 2025

On November 25, more than 1,600 Grand Erie District School Board students filled TD Civic Centre as the Brantford Bulldogs hosted their inaugural Skills and Learning Day. The event brought together students in Grades 4 to 6 from 17 schools for a day of teamwork, leadership and sport.

During a spirited skills competition, students were assigned to Team Gold, Team Black, and Team White, whose energy recreated a game-day atmosphere. Students also had a chance to hear directly from Bulldogs players, who answered thoughtful questions about leadership, education, self-esteem, physical activity, and what it means to be a good citizen. Players shared personal stories about teamwork, the importance of resilience and positive relationships both on and off the ice.

“We’re grateful for the Bulldogs’ continued commitment to Grand Erie students,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education. “Events like this bring learning to life in ways that stay with students. The lessons shared today about leadership, communication and relationships are skills that matter long after they leave the arena and classroom.”

A group of Brantford Bulldogs players gathering to celebrate during the skills competition with students in the background cheering.

Photo credit: Storm Harding – TopShelf Media

Grand Erie and the Bulldogs continue to build on a strong partnership that has grown significantly since the team arrived in Brantford. Each year, Bulldogs players visit up to 10 Brantford schools, meeting with junior students to discuss leadership, character building, health and physical activity that connect back to the curriculum.

To ensure players excel as athletes, learners, and leaders, the connection between the team and Grand Erie extends into the classroom as well, where all Bulldogs players, who are secondary school aged, attend Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational School, allowing them to continue their academic pathways receiving educational program support while pursuing their athletic careers.

“The Brantford Bulldogs were very excited to host our team’s first Skills Competition and to have 1,600-plus school kids from the Grand Erie District School Board made it very special," said Reed Duthie, Director of Broadcasting and Communications. "The Bulldogs have put emphasis on being involved in the Brantford community and to be able to host an event like this and invite school kids who get to meet some of these players on visits to the schools and then see them show what they can do on the ice is something really special."

As the partnership grows, both organizations look forward to expanding opportunities that support student well-being, belonging and success through sport, mentorship and community engagement.

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