The atmosphere was electric on Friday evening as 18 kids were fitted with their first set of hockey equipment as part of the The First Shift hockey program.
“This is your chance to give hockey a try and fall in love the sport,” said Salmon Arm Minor Hockey Association administrator Roy Sakaki to the eager kids.
On scene were six representatives from The First Shift to help fit the kids with all the equipment necessary to take to the ice.
“These pants are really nice, I want to keep them,” exclaimed Rylan Baker as he was fitted with his hockey pants.
The kids were fitted with demo equipment and recorded their size information for Bauer.
In turn, Bauer will ship all 18 sets of gear to the Shaw Centre.
In addition to receiving a set of gear, the kids will put their skills to the test in six ice sessions. A few of the instructors include Tony Guerra, Shane Burden, Dan DeRosa and Rogan Anderson, who all have experience coaching various levels of hockey.
“This will be a fun program for the kids–it’s about introducing them to the game. If they love it and want to continue playing that’s excellent, if not that’s OK too,” said Sakaki.
