BETA
This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here

More From Forbes

Edit Story

Sherwood Announces Sponsorship With Toronto Six Defender Saroya Tinker

Toronto Six defender Saroya Tinker is the latest ice hockey player added to the Sherwood Hockey roster. She is the first Premier Hockey Federation (PHF) athlete to partner with the Canadian company.

“As a Black woman playing professional hockey, I didn’t really have anyone to look up to. I hope to be a role model for those around me and those who come after me, and I am so excited to be a part of what Sherwood is doing to grow and evolve the sport,” Tinker said in the release announcing her to the Sherwood family.

Tinker launched her mentorship program Saroya Strong after her first professional hockey season. She is also the he Executive Director of Black Girl Hockey Club Canada, the release noted.

Tinker is also featured in Black Ice, a documentary that examines the history of anti-Black racism in hockey, from the segregated leagues of the 19th century to professional leagues today. The documentary, directed by Hubert Davis, won the TIFF 2022 People’s Choice Documentary Award as voted by the viewing public.

On Her TurfCelebrating Black women in hockey history

“Saroya is so much more than a phenomenal athlete. She is a mentor, a painter, and an advocate for women and people from diverse backgrounds in hockey. She is a role model for the next generation of players and embodies everything Sherwood is about,” Sherwood Brand Manager Charmaine To said.

Tinker’s partnership with Sherwood will support community initiatives like Saroya Strong. Fans of the young defender of the Toronto Six in the Premier Hockey Federation likely knew the announcement was coming.

Tinker paired up with Sherwood last September to promote the Rekker Element 1. Sherwood also teased the collaboration in December.

As a member of the Sherwood Hockey family, Tinker joins Canadian Olympian Emily Clark and USA Olympian Savannah Harmon as the women players currently sponsored by the brand. Sherwood’s other athletes include Quinton Byfield, Matthew Tkachuk, and Alex DeBrincat.

Tinker and the Toronto Six begin their season at home against 2019 Isobel Cup Champions, the Minnesota Whitecaps.

Follow me on Twitter or LinkedInCheck out my website