For the first time ever, Minnesota Hockey’s Gear Up Minnesota! program will now offer starter goalie equipment. Total Hockey has agreed to supply a limited number of goalie equipment sets to be granted to youth hockey associations in Minnesota.

Many communities have already been devoting resources to encourage young players to try playing goalie including the purchase of several sets of goalie equipment to be rotated among players at the Mite/8U level. Now, Gear Up Minnesota! will be available to help associations make goaltending more accessible for new hockey families.

"We have a strong belief that providing starter player equipment will definitely open up opportunities for associations to help families enter this great game,” said Katy Benoit of Total Hockey. “We also believe there are some associations who want to give their kids a chance to develop as goalies too, and this equipment is intended for those most in need."  

Gear Up Minnesota! has been providing starter sets of equipment to associations for the past three years in a statewide effort to attract new players and make hockey more accessible.

“As we continue our efforts to get more kids playing our game, we want to make sure kids are getting the opportunities to try all of the positions on the rink,” said Glen Andresen, Minnesota Hockey’s Executive Director. “Thanks to Total Hockey, we’re now able to give kids ages 4-9 the chance to strap on the pads and give goaltending a shot.”

It takes planning, creativity, and hard working volunteers for associations to be effective in growing the game of hockey. Whether it is a unique idea that has never been done before or a program that worked really well at another association, the Gear Up Minnesota! program can play a vital role in boosting your recruiting and retention efforts.

Apply now for a Gear Up Minnesota! grant and let us enhance your growth initiatives with starters sets of player and goalie equipment. If you are interested in goalie gear, make sure to include that in the application where it asks about your plans to utilize the equipment. The application deadline is February 28th.

All applications will be reviewed in the spring of 2014 by a granting committee consisting of representatives from Minnesota Hockey, USA Hockey and the contributing sponsors. Grants will be delivered prior to the start of the 2014-15 season.

A special thank you to the Minnesota Wild Foundation, Total Hockey, Shock Doctor, West Bend Insurance, Subway and our other partners for making Gear Up Minnesota! a success.