The name of the game is fun Sage Goldkamp (left) and Bohdi Attema (right) perform the “tow truck” drill. PHOTO BY DAVE GIBSON[/caption]

Every day is a good day for hockey. ~Mario Lemieux

Players of the Nederland Youth Hockey Association (NYHA) may be seen honing their skills at the Nederland Ice Rink during weekday afternoons and early evenings. Scheduled games are held on weekends. There are five different programs offered through NYHA including one for girls of all ages: 8 and under (Mites), 10 and under (Squirts), 12 and under (Pee Wee), and 14 and under (Bantam). The dedicated volunteer coaches for the teams are all USA Hockey certified.

Before being good hockey players, the kids must become proficient skaters. Fundamentals are emphasized while never losing sight of the reason they are there in the first place – to enjoy themselves! Mites Coach Brian Goldkamp patiently guides his charges through the drills which seem more like playtime than practice. Forward skating, backward skating, negotiating cones to improve edgework technique, and stickhandling are part of every session. Developing at their own pace, the progress they make, even from one day to the next, can be remarkable.

On Saturday, January 15 at 2:30 p.m., the Mites faced off at home against the Highland Jaguars from Westminster. With enough team members to field a couple squads, the rink was divided into two playing surfaces and games conducted simultaneously. Enthusiastically applying what they have learned, all of the Mites played well, their team scoring repeatedly, as family and friends cheered them on. Said Coach Goldkamp after the game, “I think we have had a great season so far. The kids are all having fun.”

The NYHA promotes good sportsmanship, personal growth, and a sense of achievement. For more information go to www.nederlandyouthhockey.wixsite.com.