Up to 30 Mission youngsters can take the ice for their first shift at a more affordable cost.
Mission Minor Hockey Association (MMHA) is teaming up with the NHL, NHLPA, Bauer and Hockey Canada to bring the First Shift program to the city.
“We're just excited that we're able to offer a program that's going to go out there and encourage some kids to get into hockey in an affordable way, where they can come in, get fitted and introduced to the ice,” MMHA president Jeff Clarke said.
Clarke says that any parents on the fence about getting their kids involved with hockey, this is a good way to do it.
First Shift aims to introduce new families to hockey by providing an affordable, manageable, and enjoyable experience, easing the transition into the sport for children aged six to 10 who have never participated in minor hockey.
MMHA registrar Katrina Lane said a common misconception is that 10 years old is too late to start hockey.
“It's never too late. Those 10-year-olds can come out and get fitted for gear – which is more expensive at 10 than it is at six. So this is a great opportunity for the older kids to try it out,” Lane said.
The program is open to 30 participants with a $299 registration fee that goes to Hockey Canada and its development programs. The fee includes head-to-toe fitted BAUER equipment and six weeks of on-ice sessions. Participants must not have previously registered in minor hockey.
Participants will take the ice next February after getting fitted for equipment. The program will feature six on-ice sessions offered weekly with a focus on fun while learning basic hockey skills.
First Shift also provides opportunities for local hockey associations to grow membership and attract new families.
Lane says the need to support new participants is increasing.
“I turn a lot of people on to some funding, which funds a portion of their registration gear. We've, we've do a gear swap, which, again, it's not, it's not perfect, but it's something there's, yeah, there's an increasing number of people needing assistance with gear and registration.
Clarke is also hoping the program increases registrations for girls’ hockey, with increased interest due to Vancouver’s PWHL franchise.
Doug Bodner, a former coach who now trains coaches for MMHA, helped Mission get involved with the program after speaking with peers.
“In talking to some of my peers who have gone through this, they have always ended up with a waiting list and talking to Bauer. Bauer is expanding the program. For us – this being the inaugural program – we're hoping that we'll see that same kind of response,” Bodner said. “I've got all the faith in the world we’ll be coming back for another dip.”
Registration for the program begins on June 2. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing Missionminorhockey@gmail.com.
