The First Shift program gives children/youth a chance to learn about and try the game of hockey. (Submitted photos/Kelly Strain, BMHA)

By Martin Martinson

Learning the Game

BMHA to offer introduction to hockey through First Shift program

Oct 18, 2021 | 3:26 PM

The Battlefords Minor Hockey Association is helping introduce the next generation of local hockey players to the sport through the First Shift program.

Sponsored by Bauer and the NHL/NHLPA, the program provides an opportunity for children ages six to 10 to be correctly fitted for equipment, and experience six on-ice sessions with qualified instructors over a six week timeframe.

This will be the eighth year of the First Shift program in the Battlefords, which will officially kick off Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Alex Dillabough Centre in Battleford.

During the introductory session Tuesday, participants will try on equipment provided by Bauer – and covered through their registration fees – with on-hand assistance to ensure the correct size and fit for each child/youth.

Beginning next Friday, Oct. 29, the on-ice sessions will then commence, for an hour each week for six weeks.

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President of Battlefords Minor Hockey Association, Kyle Kellgren said it’s always great to see new kids have an opportunity like the First Shift program to get involved with the game of hockey in the community.

“It’s always a fun time of year to see the kids come and decide what hand they’re going to shoot (with), and they’re always pretty excited to put the helmets and equipment on, so it’s a good introduction to the game,” he said. “Hockey isn’t always the most affordable thing for people, so this is a great way to give kids the chance to give it a whirl.”

With between 40 and 50 kids expected this year, Kellgren said usually about 50 per cent of those who take part in the First Shift program end up signing up for minor hockey as well, showing the value of introducing the sport in a fun and accessible way.

To learn more about the First Shift program, click here.

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1