WORTHINGTON--Members of the Columbus Blue Jackets staff, former players, residents of Worthington Christian Village and pre-schoolers from Kids Academy of Worthington all gathered Monday to share in a seated floor hockey game.

It's part of the Blue Jackets' Hockey Is For Everyone month.

  • The Blue Jackets are celebrating "Hockey Is For Everyone" month by engaging fans and promoting inclusion and diversity in the sport
  • The team is hosting a variety of unique activities, including on-ice and off-ice clinics, STEM-focused field trips and game-day festivities
  • The events will run throughout the month of February

“Year-round programing is offered by the Blue Jackets to engage our community, but throughout this month we're really looking for unique opportunities as a way to engage fans," said CBJ Director of Fan Development & Community Programs Andee Boiman. "Upon walking in the front door, I saw a number of residents in Blue Jackets jerseys already, so that's wonderful. That's what you want to see when you come here."

The game was also a part of a study by professors at the Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation.

They're looking to improve children's perception of aging adults through intergenerational activities.

Blue Jackets alum Jared Boll, who now serves at the the Assistant Development Coach, says its a great way to give back to the community and provide an arena experience in their own backyard.

“It's something that they don't get to do everyday and you kind of make it into a big event where you set up a rink and bring Leo in for the National Anthem. It's pretty cool that they still tell stories about when I was playing and they're still interested in the game and they're still watching the team now," said Boll. 

And for those taking part, or those cheering them on, it was an experience they won't forget."They're wonderful, fun to play with. They say funny things. It's really fun," said Worthington Christian Village resident Bonnie Pietsch. 

"They're the best. I was a pre-school teacher and it brought back so many—many happy memories for me, so I hope they come again," said Worthington Christian Village resident Donna Clawson. 

The Blue Jackets will hold 18 additional events the rest of the month.

That includes anything from street hockey clinics to a field trip at Nationwide Arena for 2,500 students, grades 4-8.