Minnesota Sports and Events Invites Fans to Become Part of “Faces of Hockey” Mosaic for 2026 World Juniors

Hockey fans across Minnesota are invited to submit their favorite hockey photo and a brief comment about the game’s impact on their lives for a massive virtual mosaic that will celebrate the sport’s rich legacy across Minnesota. The project is the latest element of “Assist26,” a 12-month community-centered initiative creating lasting impact across the State of Hockey ahead of the 50th International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship in December.

Beginning today, hockey players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans of all ages can submit photos at WorldJuniorsMN26.com/FOH. The submitted images will form a dynamic digital mosaic representing Minnesota’s diverse hockey community that will be featured prominently in-arena during the tournament as well as on an interactive wall at fan festivities.

“The Faces of Hockey mosaic gives everyone in our state the opportunity to literally become part of World Juniors history,” said Wendy Williams Blackshaw, president and CEO of Minnesota Sports and Events, the state’s sports commission and tournament host in partnership with USA Hockey. “Our Assist26 initiative embodies Minnesota’s commitment to leveraging sports for meaningful community impact. Every month we will focus on making a positive difference in our communities while honoring hockey’s legacy in our state. We can’t think of a better way to welcome the World Junior Championship to Minnesota.”

The mosaic represents the latest project in the Assist26 campaign, which features a unique effort, event or outreach each month through January 2026. Several successful initiatives have already been completed, including:

• Mayor’s Cup presented by TRIA®:The inaugural community hockey game in February at TRIA Rink featured Saint Paul and Minneapolis youth teams competing for the first-ever “Mayor’s Cup” trophy. Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey served as honorary captains, with World Juniors alumni Neal Broten and Jordan Leopold as honorary coaches.
• PWHL Minnesota Frost Supply Drive: MNSE teamed up with the Minnesota Frost of the Professional Women’s Hockey League on a personal care supply drive benefiting Tubman, a Twin Cities nonprofit supporting survivors of violence and trauma. Fans donated over 1,500 essential items at Frost home games in March, with Frost players personally delivering the contributions.

Upcoming Assist26 projects will focus on youth development, inclusion, accessibility, equipment drives, and various initiatives to grow the game and give back to Minnesota communities. Local sports organizations, event sponsors, and community partners will collaborate on legacy projects ranging from a summer hockey jamboree to referee recruitment efforts.

To participate in the Faces of Hockey mosaic or for more information about Assist26 initiatives, visit WorldJuniorsMN26.com/Assist26.