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40 / MARCH.APRIL.2018 USICERINKS.COM "Confirming that what is being brought to the table is the con- sensus of the group is imperative before moving forward and making changes. At the same time, this process can slow down our ability to be nimble and responsive to immediate needs." For many managers, we deal with competition amongst these organizations at the rink for prime ice time. This is especially a difficult challenge as they are all your business partners and you want them to feel equally valued. "Try to get to know your user groups by attending their board meetings," said Craig Petersen, general manager of Mullett Ice Center in Hartland, Wis. "Gain their confidence in you as a manager and that you're understanding of their unique needs. Try to be patient, flexible and open- minded, and know that they all mean well and are representing their program." "We were successful having quarterly meetings with the representatives all around the same table to discuss their program growth, challenges and successes," added Pistey. "They also discussed ice needs and worked together to find the best scheduling solutions for all the groups." Working closely and cooperatively with youth hockey associa- tions, figure skating clubs and other community organizations will not only create a comprehensive program offering for your rink's constituency, it will also make your job a lot easier. J *NOTE: Both USA Hockey and US Figure Skating have resources available for the establishment and operation of these types of organizations. Once established as affiliates, strict guidelines must be followed. *This article was originally published in RINK Magazine in 2011 and was updated for accuracy. All Aboard! WHAT'S YOUR SPORT? LET US HELP YOU TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL! • ICE PAINT• • CUSTOM ICE LOGOS • • FACILITY ADVERTISING • • SPORTS SAFETY & COACHING AIDS • • PAINT APPLICATION SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT • • ARENA & ATHLETIC FIELD MARKINGS • • CURLING EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES • • ICE & FACILITY MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES • SAVE BIG! BASED ON THE EXCHANGE RATE SAVE UP TO 25%* SAVINGS ON ALL OUR PRODUCTS! * Dependent on current exchange rate www.white-ice.com , Working with associations can be a challenge but is worthwhile in the end.