Gritty Sports is a family affair

Transcona

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/02/2026 (216 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A new sports store arrived in East Winnipeg late last summer, located at Unit 6, 1500 Regent Ave. West.

Tracey Wilkinson and her sister, Carrie Kull, grew up in Transcona, skating at the East End Arena, playing ringette, and volunteering alongside their parents in almost every role the community needed. That early involvement fostered in them a lifelong connection to sport and a dedication to giving back. Today, Carrie is the heart of Gritty Sports, keeping the shop organized and running smoothly, while continuing the family tradition of supporting youth and local sport – and she will always greet you with a smile.

Tracey and her husband, Brent, have remained deeply involved in local youth sports. Together, they founded the Manitoba Timberwolves, a non-profit youth hockey organization, and have organized popular 3-on-3 hockey tournaments beloved by kids across Winnipeg. Brent has coached hockey, baseball, and mountain biking, and has become a trusted, friendly presence at Spring Hill. He has also earned a strong reputation as a Blademaster skate sharpener, known for his precision and skill.

The Wilkinsons raised their three boys — a 15-year-old and 14-year-old twins — in a highly active sports environment. Over the years, the boys spent their winters at Gateway Arena, fully immersed in hockey practices, games, volunteer shifts, and building friendships. They now spend time helping out at Gritty, making the store a true family operation. Snowboarding, mountain biking, and outdoor activity have always been central to the family’s lifestyle. Adding to the fun and warmth of the shop is everyone’s favorite dog, Bo Bichette, a cavapoo who brings smiles to customers every day.

Gritty Sports was born from the family’s belief that kids should be active, outdoors, and involved in sports without facing overwhelming costs. It features a robust used gear program, offering high-quality equipment at accessible prices as well as brand new equipment for hockey, ringette, pickleball and other winter sports.

Since opening, the family has been overwhelmed by the warm and enthusiastic reception of local residents, families from nearby communities, and even those from afar.

They are truly grateful for the support, encouragement, and trust the community has shown them. For Tracey, Brent, Carrie, and their boys, Gritty is more than a business — it is a reflection of their upbringing, values, and commitment to building strong, active communities.

Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.