LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky kids gathered at Triangle Park on Tuesday morning to participate in an annual hockey game that brings them together in the spirit of sportsmanship.
Organized by the Central Kentucky Hockey Association, this year’s 8-and-under game marked the 5th edition of the highly anticipated Winter Classic. Despite Kentucky’s association with basketball and football, a growing number of kids in the state have developed a passion for hockey.
Ryan May, the president of Lexington Thoroughbreds Youth Hockey, emphasized the excitement that the event generated among the young players. Playing in front of Rupp, these kids love it. They talk about it every day, and they’re super excited after it, May declared.
The local hockey association has been working diligently to grow youth participation in the sport. Offering equipment rentals for training sessions has been instrumental in encouraging newcomers to give it a try. It’s a fantastic way to get involved in this sport, May acknowledged.
Looking to draw more people to the rink, May extended an invitation for all to attend a ‘try hockey for free’ event at the Lexington Ice Center on February 24. By showcasing the sport’s accessibility and inclusivity, the association hopes to attract even more young athletes to the ice.
Despite hockey’s relatively lower popularity in Kentucky compared to other sports, the Winter Classic’s success stands as a testimony to the level of passion and dedication displayed by these young players. The event aims to shatter misconceptions about the sport and demonstrate that hockey can rival any other sport in terms of passion and community.
As the final buzzer echoed through Triangle Park, it became clear that this annual event is about far more than just playing hockey. It’s a platform for these kids to form lasting friendships, enjoy a shared love for the sport, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The smiles on their faces as they skated across the ice highlighted the undeniable joy that hockey brings to these young athletes.
The event offers a glimpse into the potential for hockey to thrive in the heart of basketball country. By introducing more children to the sport, the hope is that Kentucky will become a breeding ground for talented hockey players in the future.
With the successful conclusion of this year’s Winter Classic, the Central Kentucky Hockey Association looks ahead to a bright future for the sport in the region. By continuing to foster a love for hockey among children, they strive to build a community that embraces the diversity of sporting passions and encourages young athletes to explore new horizons.
For those interested in giving hockey a shot, the upcoming ‘try hockey for free’ event offers the perfect opportunity to step onto the ice and experience the thrill of the game. The Lexington Ice Center will open its doors on February 24 to welcome all those eager to discover the joy of playing hockey, providing equipment and guidance to newcomers.
As the love for hockey continues to grow among Kentucky’s youth, it’s evident that the future of the sport in the state is promising. With initiatives like the Winter Classic and ‘try hockey for free,’ the Central Kentucky Hockey Association is paving the way for a vibrant and thriving hockey community in the heart of Kentucky.
So, while basketball and football undoubtedly reign supreme in the Bluegrass State, it’s becoming increasingly clear that hockey has found a special place in the hearts of these young athletes.
