PORTLAND, ME – October 8, 2026 – The Maine Mariners, proud affiliate of the NHL’s Boston Bruins and AHL’s Providence Bruins, have announced the launch of the Maine Mariners Foundation, a new 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which will serve as a key vehicle for the club’s community efforts.

The Maine Mariners Foundation is dedicated to strengthening social-emotional wellness in Maine communities through the power of winter sport. Through programs and partnerships, it will create opportunities for recreation, learning experiences on and off the ice, and hockey fandom, providing accessible pathways for every generation to play, learn, and connect.

“Part of loving Maine is loving winter,” said Susan Paine, Chair of the Foundation. “The Maine Mariners Foundation looks to broaden the opportunities for kids and families to get out and experience Maine outdoors and through sports in the winter.  Our hockey team is looking forward to opportunities to skate with the community and the Foundation cannot wait to get involved in helping kids get on ice, onto snow, into books, and playing outside.”

Each pillar of the Foundation – play, learn, and connect – will drive specific programs and partnerships such as the Read with ME youth reading program and morning skates before Sunday home games, along with partnerships with organizations like the Portland Hockey Trust. 

Sarah Stickney will oversee the work and strategy of the Foundation, bringing over ten years of experience working as the Director of Operations and Development for Portland Community Squash and building community throughout Portland. 

"I am thrilled to be part of the team to build and launch the Maine Mariners Foundation,” said Stickney. “I am a life-long winter lover and enthusiast, and I love the mission to empower kids and families to be active throughout the winter (and year!) in community." 

Retired Mariners forward Sebastian Vidmar recently joined the front office as the team’s new Community and Players Relations Coordinator. As part of his role, Vidmar will be supporting the foundation and bringing Mariners players into the experience.

“Throughout my career, some of the best moments came away from the rink, whether it was a kid's face during a school visit or a skate with a family who'd never been on the ice before,” said Vidmar. “Giving back to the community that shows up and supports us is an important part of a healthy sports organization. Our players want to be part of this community, and the Foundation gives us a real home for that work.”

The Mariners will play their preseason game this Friday, October 9th against the Worcester Railers at the University of New England. Admission to this game is free, with a suggested donation to the Maine Mariners Foundation. Tickets and donations can be accessed here, or fans are free to show up at the door. Puck drop is at 7 PM. Further plans for the Foundation will be revealed as the season gets underway, and is formally launched at the game on Sunday, February 7.

The Mariners 2026-27 season begins on Saturday, October 17^th at Worcester with the Home Opener one week later on Saturday, October 24^th, a 1 PM puck drop against the Railers. Single game tickets are available now at MaineMariners.com or at the Hammond Lumber Company Box Office inside the Cross Insurance Arena. Ticket packages including the 207 Club, half-season and 12-game plans, 12-ticket flex plans, and group discounts are also available by calling 833-GO-MAINE or filling out an inquiry form at MaineMariners.com.