Purpose:
Increase participation in USA Hockey Try Hockey For Free Events.
Increase retention of Try Hockey participants into transition Learn to Skate or Learn to Play programs.
Rationale:
In an effort to provide opportunities for players new to hockey and continue their involvement beyond an initial Try Hockey event, a 6 week Learn to Play/Learn to Skate framework will be established for associations to implement for the 2021-22 season. Retention of 6U players is one of the Growth Initiatives identified by USA Hockey.
WAHA Support:
Associations that implement the Return to the Rink - Try Hockey and More Promotion program will be eligible for reimbursement for ice, promotion and marketing, and equipment of $1000. Associations that did not participate in Try Hockey in 2019 or 2020 will be the first associations eligible for the program. 4 associations per region or 24 total associations will be eligible for reimbursement. Additionally, WAHA will promote their Try Hockey for Free event through Facebook paid marketing within a geographic boundary of their rink/association.
Requirements:
● Available to Associations and/or Ice Rinks
● Use the USA Hockey Try Hockey Registration Portal and offer a Try Hockey for Free Event on or near the National dates: November 6, 2021 or March 5, 2022
● Promote your event using marketing and promotional materials and/or social media (in addition to WAHA promotions)
● Use the WAHA framework provided to transition Try Hockey participants into a 6-8 week Learn to Play or Learn to Skate program
● Track participation of program participants and complete a report for WAHA Grassroots Committee by January 15 (for November program) or May 15th (for March program).
Resources:
USA Hockey Try Hockey for Free Portal
https://www.usahockey.com/page/show/4965656?referrer_id=
THFF Toolkit Resources
Overview
Event Manager User Manual
Framework for transition from Try Hockey to Learn to Play or Learn to Skate - More to Come
Budget:
4 WAHA associations per region or 24 total associations in good standing can receive $1,000 reimbursement for completing all requirements of the program. Total granted by WAHA not to exceed $24,000. Final report by associations to include cost of ice time, marketing and promotions, equipment provided/loaned, and other expenses related to Try Hockey for Free and transition to Learn to Play or Learn to Skate.
How to Apply:
Complete the Grant Submission Form on the WAHA Website
https://forms.gle/adTChrHg7xDiVUWr8
