Unlike a typical Saturday at the Barrhead Agrena, hockey wasn’t the only sport taking place on the ice over the weekend.
In the hopes of spreading awareness about the sport, the Pembina Ringette Association, along with Ringette Alberta, hosted a Come Try Ringette event Feb. 22.
The event kicked off with a game between the Pembina Tigers and the Leduc Jaguars, players aged eight to 12. In the afternoon, The Pembina Penguins played the Hinton Thunder, the four to eight-year-olds.
Between the two games, the ice was open to any youngsters who wanted to see what ringette was all about. Around 16 kids came out to try the sport for themselves.
President and founder of the Pembina Ringette Association said she thought the event had a good turnout. There were a lot of fans in the stands, she said, and that’s a step in the right direction for gaining more participation from the Barrhead area.
“Our very first Come Try Ringette event we had between 12 and 15 on the ice, and that’s what built the association to start with,” said George, who grew up playing the sport. “So to have 16 out there was really good.”
The chance to try ringette was hosted by Ringette Alberta, who had the kids doing some fun practices and drills. Participants learned the basics of the sport, and tried their hand at passing and skating with the ring.
Between the participating in various drills and watching the games, the event was a good opportunity for prospective players to understand what would be involved if they joined the team next season.
When the fun was said and done, all participants gathered to cheer and chant. They even got the crowd involved.
George said the association has been receiving support and encouragement from all angles, which has helped the teams get on their feet.
Because the Pembina Ringette Association has just started, Ringette Alberta has come out with their coaches without charge, said George. In addition, parents have done all they can to help get the teams organized.
“Even some of the neighbouring associations have helped as well,” said George. “Hinton rented a bus to come and play our little girls. They were very sportsmanlike.”
