Through the continued support of Rink Systems, Inc., Minnesota Hockey is once again offering a one-time $2,500 subsidy to Minnesota Hockey affiliated associations that register to purchase a “hard divider” system for the 2015-16 season. As was the case the previous two seasons, Minnesota Hockey associations will now be able to purchase a set of boards, valued at $7,900, for just $5,400.

The Minnesota Hockey Hard Divider Program is designed to aid community based associations and their home rinks in promoting the growth of ice hockey through the implementation of cross-ice hockey. Since the program’s inception, it has helped secure 45 sets of hard dividers for nearly 40 associations across Minnesota.

Associations who took part in the program during a previous season are once again eligible this season if they would like to purchase a second set of boards to allow for three “mini-rinks” on one sheet of ice. Rink Systems will also offer mini-nets at a discounted rate for programs that take advantage of the hard ice divider subsidy.

Not only a major component of player development through the American Development Model, cross-ice hockey provides a more efficient way to use ice time and space. Most importantly, the smaller playing surface gives children a greater sense of enjoyment when playing hockey. Cross-ice hockey allows players to increase the number of times they touch the puck, their puck possession time and overall speed in playing situations – all of which translate into quicker development of individual skills and a passion for the game.