Playing hockey in Minnesota gives young kids a special opportunity that isn’t available in other parts of the country: the ability to play with their friends. The community-based model thrives on players growing up together and creating lifelong memories with their best buddies. What happens though if one of your child’s best friends doesn’t play hockey?

It may surprise some people considering the role hockey plays in Minnesota tradition and culture, but less than 10 percent of kids in Minnesota play hockey. That means there is a fairly good chance one of your son’s or daughter’s best friends aren’t playing hockey.

The good news is that these families still tend to show a significant interest in hockey, according to a study by Bauer. The research shows that 73% of Canadian families without a child currently participating would consider enrolling their child in hockey and two-thirds of them view hockey positively. The percentages may not be identical here in Minnesota, but they are likely similar. 

These families represent a group that could easily become members of the hockey community if given the right encouragement. Are you ready and willing to be the person that steers them towards playing hockey? If so, here are a few tips to fuel their curiosity.

Check out a local game. What is the best way to see if a kid likes hockey besides trying it? Plan a trip to a high school, college or Minnesota Wild game.  Watching hockey live is a great way to ensure kids are exposed to the game and may foster a new fascination for it.

Wear your colors proudly. While most youth teams are wearing the colors of a local grocery store, hockey players get to put on their community’s colors right away. Encourage your kids to wear their team apparel and jerseys to school.  The other kids will notice and want to be a part of your child’s team.

Play similar sports.  Hockey is a unique sport.  That is part of what makes it so special.  Don’t forget about a few of its close relatives though.  Giving kids a taste of games like floor hockey, boot hockey and broomball can expose them to some elements of hockey while keeping them on their feet instead of skates.

Invite them to special events. Many associations host special events to get kids interested in hockey and give them a chance to try it out. Before you swing by the rink for the annual Spooky Skate or Skate with Santa event, take a trip through the neighborhood and grab a few friends to share the fun with.

Be prepared to answer questions. If you are working to get your child’s friends into hockey, it is also very important to be ready to field their parents’ questions. The most common topics will likely revolve around safety, cost and commitment so make sure you know what programs are in place to alleviate these concerns. These conversations are also a great time to bring up how much fun your child has and how quickly he or she has been developing on and off the ice since starting hockey.