The East Side Youth Sports Foundation (ESYSF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the growth of youth sports on the eastside of metro Detroit.

Through Grants and Scholarships, and Sports Programs, ESYSF is making sports available to all children and providing players important life lessons that will assist them during competition and beyond including good sportsmanship, citizenship, teamwork, physical welfare and more. ESYSF is also using sports to bridge the gap between Detroit and surrounding communities, removing social, economic and racial barriers.

Our Mission

Grow Hockey

The East Side Youth Sports Foundation supports many initiatives to increase the number of children playing hockey on the eastside of metropolitan Detroit, and developing a life long passion for the sport.

Provide Youth Players Financial Support

East Side Youth Sports Foundation provides equipment and jerseys, as well as scholarships to assist low-income families withhockey costs.  Over 500 sets of equipment have been provided to children ages 3-9 in the Learn to Play Hockey 8U program.

Develop Life Skills Through Hockey

ESYSF provides players life lessons that will assist them on and off the ice including:

Loyalty, Dedication, Teamwork, Commitment, Determination, Communication, Listening Skills, Self-Confidence & Social Skills

Strategic Thinking

“Whether you’re trying to learn in hockey or trying to learn in life, I’ve always tried to be observant and tried to learn more,tried to evolve, whether it’s as a hockey player or as a person. With each year, I try to do that.” -Sidney Crosby

Promote Physical Benefits

Hockey provides numerous physical benefits that allow players to develop an active and healthy lifestyle including: Coordination, Endurance, Agility and Balance. Plus, Cardiovascular Exercise, Upper and Lower Muscular Strength.

Sponsors & Partners