PORT McNEILL—Hoping to build on the success of a first-year female hockey program last season and entice more girls into the sport, the Port McNeill Hockey Association will host its first all-girls hockey jamboree Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Chilton Regional Arena.
Designed as a fun introduction to the sport, rather than a competitive event, the jamboree will included a series of fun activities on and off the ice, and lunch will be provided.
All girls five years and older are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Helmet, gloves, skates and stick are required, but may be provided if needed.
Pre-registration is available through today at Timberland Sports in Port McNeill. Those who miss the deadline can check on the availability of spots by calling Boni at 250-956-4675 or Lisa at 250-956-2224.
New girls program
Port McNeill Minor Hockey plans to begin an Intro to Girls Hockey program beginning Oct. 14, with practices held once per week each Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
The program runs through mid-March, with a cost of $100 per player for the full season.
The program hopes to build on the successful Tri-Port peewee girls team formed last year, but in a less-competitive environment.
"This new group will be more of an introductory program," organizer Lisa Brown said. "For some of the kids who haven't played before, we're hoping an all-girls environment is something they may feel more comfortable in. It will be a mix of age levels and it won't be for teams or a game schedule; it's more about skills development."
Girls who have previously played co-ed hockey are also welcome to try out the Intro to Girls Hockey program.
Brown said the competitive team started last season under coach Boni Sharpe will continue as a bantam club this season, with many of the same players.
"We're hoping some of the bantam girls will help come and coach and role-model," she said.