To learn more about the organization, visit www.restorehockey.org.
The Falcon hockey alumnus grew up in Billerica, Mass., in a family of skaters. He inherited all of his equipment – from skates and pads to helmets and gloves – so never faced the startup cost.
“I didn’t realize how expensive it was,” explains Spengler, noting that brand-new gear can run upward of $400 from head to toe. His cost consciousness came years later, as friends hesitated to register their children for a local hockey league because of the required investment. Spengler mobilized his network and gathered used equipment from former teammates. “I knew this was my way to give back to the sport.”
The couple founded Restore Hockey in 2007 as a no-cost, reliable source for used equipment. Within three years, it was a 501(c)(3) organization running collections up and down the East Coast. Major partners include the Boston Bruins Foundation and Hockey East.
The donated equipment goes to anyone who asks and financial need is not required. Before distribution, all pieces are cleaned and disinfected by Massachusetts-based SportsWash; fundraising covers the cost.
The Restore Hockey roster includes Scott Crowder, an alumnus of the UMass–Amherst hockey program and son of former Boston Bruin Bruce Crowder. As executive director, Crowder runs day-to-day operations and marketing. Mike Spengler concentrates on strategic oversight while also holding a day job – New England sales manager for an electronics distributor – and Carolyn supports all fronts (including their home and children, Luke, age 4, and Grace, 2).
Spengler credits his Bentley education with helping him balance life’s hat trick: family, career and philanthropy.
“You wear a lot of hats in a nonprofit, so having a good understanding of the basic business functions has been important to our success,” says the alumnus, who sits on the Bentley Hockey Alumni Committee and is working with head coach Ryan Soderquist to plan a community collection event.
Restore Hockey’s biggest score to date was an invitation to collect at the 2012 NHL Winter Classic in Philadelphia, Pa.
“There are sponsors who pay millions of dollars to be there,” Spengler says of the invitation coup.
Reflecting on his love for the sport, Spengler notes its ability to bridge generations of family – and fans. “This bond is what helped forge Restore Hockey – and what I believe is helping Bentley’s program gain ground in a very competitive athletic community.”
