Congratulations to Kent Kopp of the Alexandria Area Hockey Association (AAHA) on being named March’s Total Hockey Volunteer of the Month! Kopp has served as President for AAHA the past four years and has spearheaded the association’s efforts to grow the game locally and become a leader in player development.

Kopp has been a volunteer for AAHA since his kids started hockey nine years ago. With no hockey experience of his own to lend as a coach, he got his start by volunteering as a team manager.  Kopp also served on the board as Public Relations Coordinator before moving into the role of President.

During his time with the association, Kopp has made a significant impact on a number of policies and programs, but most importantly, he’s used his caring personality and communication skills to positively influence thousands of people in the association and the entire community.

“From delivering Christmas baskets for the Santa for Seniors organization as AAHA’s community service project, cooking hot dogs for the Wells Fargo Wild Road Tour, or taking first place in Alexandria’s Rib Fest, Kent has always jumped at every opportunity to positively represent AAHA,” said AAHA Treasurer Lois Croonquist. ”It was important to Kent that our association not only impact the lives of our young athletes, but the lives of those in our community as well.”

Kopp’s dedication to the community and AAHA went to another level this season. While taking on new challenges with the association, including the pursuit of a third sheet of ice, Kopp has been opening his own restaurant called Pike and Pint, where his “Hockey Dad Pork Ribs” are a town favorite. Kopp’s commitment to hockey throughout the season, especially amidst such a stressful time in his professional life, provided AAHA with a calming influence and was a testament to his leadership.

“The demands of his position are great, but Kent’s attitude has always been positive and thoughtful,” said Croonquist. “He is always available to anyone to talk hockey. Just stop by Pike and Pint for some ribs and ask!”

While Kopp is stepping down after this season, he’s hopeful the association can continue to enhance its programs by focusing on keeping the game affordable and making it enjoyable for all kids through positive coaching and positive parenting.

After all, Kopp says about his own kids, “Somewhere, someday, they will hang up the skates for good.  However, I will be their Dad forever.”

Kopp will continue to support the association, even though his kids have graduated to the high school level, by serving on a committee for rink development.

Minnesota Hockey and Total Hockey would like to thank Kent Kopp for his outstanding service and passion for hockey in Alexandria! There’s no doubt it is the unmatched quantity and commitment of volunteers like Kent across our state who make community hockey in Minnesota so special.