ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — The Junior Amerks Youth Organization awarded nearly $35,000 in scholarships to about 100 different players this year. The awards primarily came from two community partners of the organization, officials announced Thursday. Hockey Buddies, founded by a New York Islanders player - and the Anthony Mazurkiewicz Memorial Scholarship fund, which was created to help players of families with first responders, teamed up to help young hockey players afford equipment and pay team dues. "Some people think that hockey is expensive, and we would like to take that barrier out of the equation and make sure that hockey is for everyone," said Robyn Macbride, the president of the Rochester Junior Americans. "If you want to play hockey, we want to make it affordable and accessible for you. So, our scholarship is a way we can give back to our families." Brighton, Hilton student-athletes sign letters of intent The scholarships can be used for the cost of ice time, instruction, equipment and even jerseys should the need arise. Families can apply based on their financial needs. You can find the scholarship application form here.