Growing the game one mite at a time
Want to know if the OneGoal equipment program is working? Just count the number of new kids on the ice.
So far, more than 11,000 sets of OneGoal starter equipment are currently in use at rinks and youth associations in the United States. Though just launched last fall, the equipment program has produced tremendous results.
“We marketed hockey and the OneGoal equipment with both our youth association and through the schools,” said Craig O’Neill from the Arctic Edge (Canton, Mich.). “This fall we nearly doubled the size of our Learn to Play program, and went from 30 to over 50 in our Mite and mini-Mite programs.”
In Fond du Lac, Wis., new kids in hockey were allowed to play for free this season, and were given OneGoal equipment to use. Hyland Hills, Colo., is running a “bring a friend to hockey” day where all newcomers can try hockey while wearing OneGoal gear. Girls in Rochester, N.Y., will be able to join a free Learn to Skate program and use OneGoal equipment.
OneGoal starter equipment comes in two sizes – youth small, for 4- to 6-year-olds, and youth large, for 6- to 8-year-olds, – and includes shin pads, shoulder pads, elbow pads, pants, gloves, a helmet with cage, and it all comes in a OneGoal hockey bag.
The equipment program is available to any rink operator, youth association, or retailer that wants to grow hockey participation in their community.
Programs around the country are already making plans to order equipment to use for next season. Orders will be accepted through March 1.
HWAA Ready For Successful Sequel
Hockey Weekend Across America, presented by Reebok, is a three-day nationwide celebration of the sport of hockey. Each of the three days associated with Hockey Weekend Across America has a theme, including Wear Your Favorite Hockey Jersey on Friday, Bring a Friend to the Rink on Saturday and Celebrate Local Hockey Heroes on Sunday.
HockeyWeekendAcrossAmerica.com will serve as the information hub for the event. It features material for download, including the event logo and poster. Anyone may download the artwork for the poster and have posters printed for use in conjunction with the event.
USA Hockey is conducting a contest for best Hockey Weekend Across America programming with the grand-prize winner receiving 25 sets of OneGoal starter equipment ($4,000 value), plus $2,000. Additionally, five runner-up prizes of $1,000 will be awarded.
Women’s Tourney Added To Stable
The Adult Council will operate an Adult Women’s 50 & Over Recreational National Championship, April 24 – 26 at the Ellenton (Fla.) Ice and Sports Complex.
Labatt Blue will be providing refreshments and prize giveaways.
“We are happy to continue the tradition of providing a great event experience for all adult players,” says John Beadle, USA Hockey’s Adult Council chairman.