Girls’ minor hockey in Ponoka writes a new chapter to its story as it joins forces with Lacombe Minor Hockey.
Coaching director Sharon Klinger said the main goal is to have girls playing at every level without a large age difference in players. “It’s better to play at the same age group.”
Initial meetings started as early as last winter with Lacoka Female Hockey being born from it. The idea is not new as Lacombe and Ponoka used to have a midget girls’ team, explained Klinger.
“We’re trying to do it with the whole girls’ program…we don’t want to leave anybody behind,” she stated.
Twenty-three girls from novice to midget levels blew the dust off their gear and started conditioning for the 2012-2013 season Aug. 14 at the Lacombe Sports and Leisure Complex. Skating and dryland training were taught during the camp.
Late registration deadline for Lacombe is Aug. 28 in the west upper lobby of the Lacombe arena and registration for Ponoka is Sept. 5 at the Kinsmen Community Centre from 5 to 8 p.m. A used equipment table will be on hand.
“We wondered what issues there were for holding kids back and equipment is a large issue, so they have an equipment table,” she said.
First time registration for minor hockey is free, explained Klinger, who looks forward to what this season will bring for girls’ hockey. “I’m sure we’re going to have some bumps along the way…but the seeds have been planted.”
— Submitted