TORONTO, Oct. 5 /CNW/ -- As hockey seasons across the country get underway, Canadian Tire would like to help kids of all skill levels and financial backgrounds get into the game this year. In addition to offering a full line-up of affordable and innovative hockey equipment, Canadian Tire has also introduced its new GoPlay(TM) MasterCard(R), providing valuable rewards for players and donations to organizations that help kids of all levels and financial backgrounds play hockey.

"As one of the largest retailers of hockey equipment in North America, Canadian Tire is a destination store for all things hockey - for both players and fans," says Duncan Reith, Canadian Tire Retail. "The hockey category continues to be a core focus at Canadian Tire, with stores carrying top brands, affordable products featuring the latest technology and one of the most comprehensive assortments of NHL merchandise in the country."

In order to help kids have everything they need this season, canadiantire.ca offers parents an online equipment buying guide that includes a comprehensive hockey gear checklist, information on getting properly outfitted and tips for maintaining equipment to ensure top performance and hygiene.

Another significant addition to Canadian Tire's hockey offering this season is the GoPlay MasterCard. Launched in Ontario, the new card enables users to earn valuable GoPlay rewards when they use the card anywhere they shop, anywhere in the world. Customers can earn double GoPlay Reward points when they shop at Canadian Tire stores, Canadian Tire gas bars and Mark's Work Wearhouse/L'Équipeur stores. The reward points turn everyday purchases for groceries, clothes, dining out or paying bills into sports and recreation rewards for equipment, program fees, events and more.

A special feature of the Canadian Tire GoPlay MasterCard is that a portion of every purchase will be donated to local sport organizations and Canadian Tire Jumpstart, which helps kids in financial need participate in organized sports and recreation activities. For the Ontario launch, a portion of the donations will go to Canadian Tire Jumpstart and the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and the GoPlay MasterCard will be branded with the OMHA logo.

"What we love about the GoPlay MasterCard rewards program is that we can provide great value to our customers while also supporting kids and families looking to participate in sports and recreation, which is so important in helping kids develop life skills, self esteem and confidence," adds Reith.