The Quesnel Minor Hockey Association is recruiting for its First Shift Program, which helps young players get equipment and teaches them fundamental skills to start their hockey careers.
"It's a super great program for kids who want to get into hockey because the price is $299 and Bauer supplies them all their equipment," said program coordinator Cody Dillabough. "And then also with that package they get six on-ice sessions and then we provide ice time for them for the rest of the season."
He said those on-ice sessions focus on teaching the six-to 10-year-olds in the program the basic skills. People who sign up don't need to have experience with skating, as the program is set up for all kinds of skill levels.
"It's been really successful, we've maxed out registrations every year and then we see a lot of those kids continue through to hockey," Dillabough said. He likes being part of the program and seeing kids' love for the game grow as they continue through the program and into playing the game.
The instructional team tries to break players up into different skill levels so the children who are learning how to skate are building those skills while people who already know how are learning new skills.
He said the gear alone is a good incentive for people to sign their children up for the program because it will last several seasons unless they grow out of it. He estimates it would cost around $700 without the program.
The program starts Nov. 13 with ice times wrapping up before Christmas break. After the break, players will have the opportunity to be part of the transitional program, allowing them to use their new equipment and skills as part of a team.
Dillabough said registration is limited and recommends people sign players up if they're considering it before spaces run out.
The registration can be found at publicationsports.com. People seeking more information can email questions to qdmha@shaw.ca.
