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 2022-23 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 2020 or 2021 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 5, 2022 or February 25, 2023.
• 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 February 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:

Register your THFF event with USA Hockey.

https://www.usahockey.com/page/show/4966147-try-hockey-for-free

Once your event is registered, your point of contact will receive an email with directions and requirements to receive the WAHA THFF and More Grant!

Grant Submission Form