Renfrew youth will soon have access to a hockey program that has been missing since the renovations at the myFM Centre.
Town staff and the Renfrew Minor Hockey Association have teamed up to reintroduce weekly shinny games starting Friday, January 16th, at the arena’s new BEI Ice Pad for a fun, informal way for young players ages 9-13 to build confidence, get extra ice time, and enjoy the game with friends, according to town programs supervisor Janyne Fraser.
RMHA President Jon Pole notes the program brings back a way for youth to enjoy the sport that had been lost once the town lost its outdoor rink to the outdoor facility, adding that finding a way to bring shinny back was a requirement laid out by the town’s second ice-pad committee ahead of construction.
The experience is meant to provide a casual, less strict style of hockey that won’t require a year-long commitment, but Fraser reminds players and parents that there are a few ground rules to keep the sessions fun for everyone.
That means wearing a full set of approved hockey equipment while on the ice, as well as saving more dangerous aspects like body contact and slap shots for higher levels of play.
Both sides of the collaboration are treating this pilot run as a test case, as Pole explains that a well-attended first year could open up more possibilities for the entire family to get involved.
Shinny games will happen each Friday from January 16th to March 13th, with the exception of February 9th.
Registration is ongoing online, by phone at 613-432-3131, by email, or in person at the myFM Centre’s Recreation Office. However, Fraser urges those interested to reach out as soon as possible, as more than half the total spaces available are already filled.
(written by Kasey Egan)
