Bouncing hockey kids up to their next level is what the Quesnel Kangaroos intend to do. Their annual hockey school is now taking registrations and is about to begin. The school runs from Aug. 21-25.
Roos head coach Jordan Draper said the interactions that come from the players teaching the kids is a big boost for both of them. The kids learn skills, the players get fans who often will turn into friends.
“Hosting the hockey camp last year really helped the kids get to know some of the guys, and I saw that a lot of the kids wanted to come out to the games, and there were more kids wanting to come to the dressing room after the game, so I think it’s really important for the community to have the guys and the kids familiar with each other,” Draper said. “The kids all have their favourite players, the players respond to that positive energy, and it’s a good experience for them.”
One of the exciting perks this year is a customized message the kids will get to watch from an NHL coach who was once a Quesnel minor hockey kid just like they are.
“The most important element of any sports is to make sure it is fun,” said a Kangaroos team statement. “A camp that is too long could take the joy of the game away from it. Players should look to make new friends while having fun together on the ice, and that is what we do here at the Roos hockey school.”
There is another key feature to this hockey school, specifically tailored for maximum inclusion.
“If you don’t have time during the day but want your kids to be involved in a hockey school, this is perfect for you,” said the team. “It all starts on August 21st in the evenings and goes all week with dryland first and the on-ice session second.”
The cost of the camp is $200. A mix of Roos players and coaches will spread out the instructional workload, so the kids get exposed to a number of the names they will cheer for during the hockey season when the Kangaroos are battling to retain their Central Interior Hockey League championship, and Coy Cup victory.
“If you still want to sign up, email us at qkhockeyclub@gmail.com with your name and age,” the Roos said. Spots are filling up fast.
READ MORE: Quesnel Kangaroos won their way into the Coy Cup
READ MORE: Kangaroos win it all on Quesnel ice
