Who We Are

The East Side Youth Sports Foundation (ESYSF) is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to expanding youth sports on Detroit’s eastside. Founded in 2014 as the East Side Hockey Foundation, ESYSF acquired and revitalized the East Side Hockey Ice Arena in Detroit, aiming to not only upgrade facilities but also provide underserved boys and girls access to hockey.

Responding to the community’s needs, the Foundation transitioned in 2015 to support all youth sports, growing from 200 to over 1,000 children served annually. ESYSF offers grants, scholarships, equipment, and subsidized field time, partnering with local programs to create more opportunities for kids to play organized sports.

A key initiative has been increasing the participation of underprivileged youth in hockey, in collaboration with USA Hockey and the NHL. Partnerships with local organizations like Morningside, East English Village, Cornerstone Community Advocates, and Eagle Sports have allowed us to bring sports camps and free play to children who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity.

In 2016, ESYSF took over the Grosse Pointe Hockey Association, renaming it the East Side Bulldogs Hockey Club to foster inclusivity. With over 400 members and 14 teams, the Bulldogs offer programs at all skill levels, focusing on growth, sportsmanship, and fun. Notably, our 8U Learn to Play Hockey and Learn to Skate programs have grown by 25% annually and seen a significant increase in ethnic diversity, particularly among underprivileged children.

To date, we’ve awarded $124,000 in scholarships to 132 underprivileged kids, while making over $1 million in upgrades to the ESH Ice Arena. These improvements include a new roof, updated refrigeration systems, enhanced rink safety, and better facilities, ensuring a top-tier experience for the community.

ESYSF also hosts “Try Hockey for Free” events, providing equipment and jerseys at no cost. If families face financial challenges, the Foundation steps in to cover equipment costs. So far, over 500 sets of gear have been given to children aged 3-8.

For more information, visit www.bulldogshockeyclub.org.