The Minnesota Hockey Hard Divider Program, presented by Rink System’s Inc., currently has one remaining $2,500 subsidy available to purchase a “hard divider” system. The Hard Divider Program was launched early in the 2013-14 season and is designed to promote the growth of our community-based associations through the implementation of cross-ice hockey.

With the one-time subsidy, 19 Minnesota Hockey affiliated associations have already purchased a set of boards, valued at $7,900, for just $5,400. Minnesota Hockey and Rink Systems have worked together throughout the season to facilitate the program and coordinate the delivery of the hard ice dividers, providing associations with as much time as possible with their new resource.

The main benefit of hard dividers is offering participants with a more realistic playing area. They are very comparable to the boards surrounding a typical rink.  They are about the same height, give similar bounces, have rounded corners, can fit standard or Olympic ice sheets and even come with the option for nets. By providing a better look and feel, the Minnesota Hockey Hard Divider Program gives all of our associations an opportunity to improve their players’ cross-ice experience.

“It was important to Minnesota Hockey to find a partner that understands the value of providing a fun, game-like experience for our young hockey players,” said Dave Margenau, President of Minnesota Hockey on partnering with Rink System, Inc. “It’s outstanding to be able to work with a committed partner that understands the Minnesota Hockey culture and is based right here in the State of Hockey.”

Not only a major component of player development through the American Development Model, cross-ice hockey also provides a more efficient way to use ice time and space. Most importantly, the smaller playing surface gives children a greater sense of enjoyment when playing hockey. Cross-ice hockey allows players to increase the number of times they touch the puck, their puck possession time and overall speed in playing situations – all of which translate into quicker development of individual skills and a passion for the game. 

If your association is interested in securing a set of cross ice hard dividers, now is the time! The Minnesota Hockey Hard Divider Program, presented by Rink System’s Inc., has only one subsidy remaining.  The first association to submit a completed application and the $1,000 deposit will secure the last set of hard dividers available this season.  Associations can apply online or by mail.