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NGB News USA Hockey & U.S. Figure Skating , Since the inception of USA Hockey's national Try Hockey For Free days 10 years ago, hosted bi-annually each November and February, more than 200,000 kids have been introduced to the sport on those dates. While site numbers were lower than normal due to the pandemic, more than 175 local rinks and associations hosted this year's Nov. 7 Try Hockey event. This fall saw adjustments both from host sites and USA Hockey's sup- port pieces. Interactive webinars were organized to provide host sites with the needed information and an opportunity to connect with USA Hockey and other locations. More guidance was developed on marketing locally and leveraging more grassroots opportunities. "We had great feedback from host sites on our Try Hockey webinars," said Katie Holmgren, director of Program Services at USA Hockey. "It gave us an opportu- nity for a greater connection to our local associations and also a platform for us to gather best practices as state and regional guidelines change with the pandemic." Rinks and associations were encour- aged to have open communication to ensure they were following health guidelines. What's universal for all host sites is how important Try Hockey events are for growing the sport at the youngest levels, which translates into growth at all ages as those children continue to play. "We like to have as many free opportunities to try hockey as pos- sible," said Robert Braun, Mini Mite Director for Eagan Youth Hockey in Minnesota. "I bet we add 6-8 new players as a result of this event. It's one more touch point we have with the community to introduce hockey." The next Try Hockey For Free event is scheduled for February 20, 2021. To learn more about hosting Try Hockey For Free events or learn about other growth programming, visit our website at USAHockey.com/ProgramServices. 24 / NOVEMBER.DECEMBER.2020 USICERINKS.COM Local Associations Adjust to Host Try Hockey for Free Day Safely Amid Pandemic , New gear just in time for the holidays! Our online store is now stocked with fresh Learn to Skate USA-branded merchandise and merchandise branded with the organization's slogan "Skate to Great." No matter what type of skater you are, where you are in your skating journey, or what your goals are it, the "Skate to Great" motto represents the drive that everyone has to get out on the ice and skate their best. We strive for skaters to grow beyond Learn to Skate USA and into U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and US Speedskating. "Skate to Great" is versatile and will stick with you along your journey. Now you can wear that slogan to and from the rink—and everywhere in between. NGB News USA Hockey & U.S. Figure Skating New Line of 2020 Learn to Skate USA Merchandise PHOTO: USA HOCKEY New merchandise consists of items for skaters, coaches and their sup- port systems, including, vests, hats, water bottles, backpacks, outwear and more. Buy yours today at Shop.LearnToSkateUSA.com.