Värnamo Hockey gears up with support from Proton Group
There is a glow in Värnamo Ishall. Not just from the warm engine of the ice machine, but from the community that has grown up around Värnamo Hockey. With over 400 members, new initiatives for juniors and a clear dream of girls’ and women’s hockey, the club is a meeting place for children, young people and families in the municipality. We spoke to club manager Patrik Cedefors about the vision, the challenges – and why the support of local companies like Proton Group is crucial.
A central force in the community
“We have as many as 40 six and seven-year-olds who have just graduated from hockey school. That breadth is fantastic to see,” says the club manager, beaming. With just under 20,000 inhabitants in Värnamo, a youth programme of this size is something to be proud of.
However, the club wants to go further – especially on the girls’ side. “The dream is to have an all-girls team and eventually a women’s team. To succeed, we need to get the girls in early,” he explains, and talks about upcoming try-out days where all equipment is loaned out for free. ‘No one should say no to hockey just because the equipment is expensive.’
New meeting places – and harder shots
There’s no end of ideas: an open activity area inside the hall, a modern shot ramp where both juniors and first-team players can measure their shooting strength, all to arouse the curiosity of more children. On the drawing board, most of the work is done, but it obviously requires capital. That’s where partnerships like Proton Group are crucial, and close co-operation with the municipality of course.”
Belonging and sound values
Training in Värnamo Hockey should feel like coming home. “It’s about belonging and role models. I want the children to be proud of the club badge, even if we don’t win the Swedish Championship,” says the club manager.
The club is actively working to break hockey’s old macho stigma. “If you wear a Värnamo jersey, you represent the club – on the ice, at school, in town. Humility and respect first, always.” We see more involved women in the boardroom, coaching booths and cafeteria as an important path towards a more inclusive culture.
Challenges with open doors
The biggest nut to crack is the economy. Players with multiple siblings already get a discount, but the club wants to do more. “We need to reach families who have no experience or knowledge of hockey. We are planning visits to schools to inform and encourage them to try hockey.”
In parallel, the club is pushing for a local ice hockey academy (LIU), which would provide morning training for youngsters without the need for elite-level activity. ‘It would do wonders for the junior ranks – and reduce the pressure on volunteer coaches in the evenings.’
It’s about belonging and role models. I want the children to be proud of the club badge even if we don’t win the Swedish Championship.
Proton Group’s role – more than a logo on the side
‘The financial support is important, of course, but it’s only half the picture,’ the club manager emphasises. ‘When Proton employees come to games, talk about us in their workplaces, and maybe even get up and grill burgers during half-time – that’s when the club really grows.’
The aim is to create a vibrant arena where sponsors, players and spectators meet. “We want to fill the hall, and we want to see Proton families in the stands. Maybe you have children who want to try hockey? Welcome to the community!”
The future game plan – together
Värnamo Hockey is ready. With new initiatives, a broad youth base and an inclusive approach, the club is well on its way to becoming an even stronger force in the local community. “But we can’t do it alone. More volunteers, more partnerships and more girls in skates, then we will write the next chapter together,” concludes the club manager.
Proton Group is proud to be a partner. We hope that customers, colleagues and the whole of Värnamo will be inspired, and perhaps take the step into the ice rink to cheer on the stars of the future.
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