How many of us remember those wonderful hockey games out on the pond? The cold, crisp air often under the light of the moon. No adults, no coaches, no referees. Just hockey, uncomplicated and fun!
You may think those days are long gone and those experiences are only available to the lucky few that live in the country, but you’d be wrong.
The Hockey Alberta Pond Hockey Program offers these same experiences to everyone in the province. Pond Hockey offers a way of providing fun hockey to a wide range of age groups in a relatively unstructured environment. Started in 2003, the program has gathered a loyal following of about 1700 players in 26 communities. The newest member of the Pond Hockey family is the town of Gleichen. Some of these programs also offer special events that are open to all Pond Hockey registered players. For example, the Red Deer Pond Hockey League holds two outdoor tournaments, starting on January 16, 2010 and February 20, 2010.
So what is Pond Hockey? It is an innovative program that focuses on participation in a less structured and flexible environment by enabling young people and families to enjoy the game of hockey. And how is Hockey Alberta involved? We serve all who want to provide the opportunity for youth to play Pond Hockey in a safe, fair and fun environment by offering quality services and support. Some of the key points about the Program are:
- Availability of the current Hockey Alberta Insurance Program
- No body contact or body checking
- Modified playing rules (no blue lines or center line)
- Age divisions determined by local needs
- Boundaries are non issues
- Pond Hockey registrations have no effect on Provincial categorization
Does this sound like something you’d like to get involved in? If so visit the Pond Hockey Homepage at www.hockeyalberta.ca to find out more. |