As the governing body for hockey in Minnesota, Minnesota Hockey acts as a steward for our sport.  Three priorities make up this stewardship

1.       Development of hockey players

2.       Provide the safest environment possible in which to play and enjoy hockey

3.       Grow the number of hockey players by introducing the sport to more Minnesota families.

As important as the first two are, they don’t mean much if nobody is playing the game.  Fortunately in Minnesota, for many families signing their sons and daughters up for hockey is as important as teaching them how to brush their teeth.  However, as surprising as this may seem,  this is not the case with all families in our state.  In fact, for many families with no previous hockey experience, the idea of becoming a hockey family can be an intimidating one.

Because of this, Minnesota Hockey recently created the Recruiting & Retention Committee.  Its purpose is simple – assist our community based hockey associations in Minnesota to continually and actively invite families to participate in hockey.  By sharing ideas, facilitating various grants, and working closely with USA Hockey, the Minnesota Hockey Recruiting & Retention Committee is a resource for any group that wants to see more Minnesota children in skates with stick in hand!

The Minnesota Hockey Newsletter will regularly highlight what is being done statewide to grow the game.  From very simple ideas to off-the-wall creativity, if it works we are in favor of it.  And we want to share it!  If your association recently did something that had positive results, please email what you did to info@minnesotahockey.org.  And if you would like to get involved at a statewide level, please contact Shari Olson.  Shari oversees the Recruiting & Retention Committee and can be reached at (218) 348-2417 or shari@duluthheritagesportscenter.com

For more information about growing hockey in Minnesota, please visit the recruiting and retention sections of www.minnesotahockey.org or www.usahockey.com.

Let’s Play Hockey!!