Remember roller rinks?  They were an indoor version of ice skating mixed with arcade games, music, limbo, prizes and much more.  Roller rinks were known for several decades as the place to go for a good time. 

While the days of disco lights and roller skates, not rollerblades, may be a thing of the past, Dodge County Youth Hockey (DCYH) has taken that concept and created a unique way to introduce new families to hockey. 

On September 22, 2012, DCYH held a Fall Fun Night for the second year in a row.  The inspiration for the event came from the way roller rinks incorporated an entertainment atmosphere to the central theme of skating.  Dodge County brought the idea to life by hosting an open skate that featured music and games both on and off the ice. 

Upon arriving, every kid entered their name into a bucket and prize winners were announced throughout the night.  Skates were available for rental to further encourage non-hockey families to attend.  DCYH promoted the event heavily starting in June.  The hard work paid off with 98 youth skaters and 15 adults coming out for a night of fun at the ice arena. 

“We had another great turnout this year,” said Jeff Kraus, President of DCYH. “The board unanimously called the event a success, and agreed to continue the event next season.”

Fall Fun Night isn’t the only example of DCYH’s creativity when it comes to recruiting and retention.  The association also held a New Family Orientation Night this past September.  DCYH established their orientation night to assist with the transition period new families face when starting hockey. 

Board members and coaches volunteered to welcome new parents and players into the association by answering questions in an open house format.  They had stations on registration, equipment fitting and requirements, levels of play, time commitment, fundraisers, concessions and more. Refreshments were provided and laptops were available for anyone interested in registering that night.

About 30-40 families attended the event, leaving the board confident that the two events will help the association grow for many years to come. 

Thank you to Jeff Kraus and all of the volunteers in Dodge County Youth Hockey for their commitment to growing hockey in Minnesota!

Minnesota Hockey will regularly highlight the efforts of associations from across the state 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! For more information on recruiting and retention efforts statewide or to share your story, send an email to info@minnesotahockey.org.