Message from the Board 2008-09

What an exciting time, the hockey season is fast approaching.  We are excited to get the season started and would like to welcome all families to the Worthington Hockey Association.  Some things have changed within the association, while others have remained the same.

We have expanded our dry land training area and hope that the individual teams will utilize this area along with the on ice practices to enhance the performance and skills of our players.  Continued efforts are taking place to have the coaches coordinate the practice plans from the Varsity level to the Mini Mite level.  Thus encouraging strong players on all levels of the program and preparing them for when each individual moves to the next level.

Due to various projects that have taken place this past summer, the mortgage will be paid off and we can make improvements to our arena.  Thanks to all of the families that have made this happen.  Without the participation of the members of the Association, this would not have happened.  We will continue to have our fundraisers throughout the year to continue to pay for general operating expenses and also to plan for updates to our arena.  New bleachers, announcers booth, sound system and lighting for the ice arena are a few of the upcoming improvements that we would like to see take place over the next few years.  With the assistance from all of the members of the Association, this can happen.  As in years past, we will be working with the City of Worthington, Nobles County Fair Board, School District #518, Worthington Sports and Rec, various committees, Area Service Groups Media and others to assist us with our arena operations.

Volunteer hours will be a total of 30 hours for each family.  10 hours must be completed in the concession area, 5 hours must be on a committee and the remaining hours can be completed elsewhere.  Examples are listed later in the handbook.

There will be a mandatory deposit of $400 from each player for equipment and volunteer hours.  This is required when jerseys and equipment are picked up.  If a deposit and fees are not paid prior to the first game, that player will not be allowed to dress for the game and not allowed back on the ice until it is paid.  The $400 deposit check will be returned to the player/parent at the end of the end of the season once the volunteer hours have been completed and the equipment has been turned in.  If volunteer hours are not completed or equipment has not been returned, this will be deducted from the deposit check.

Again, we welcome all returning hockey families and all new families to our association.  This year will be filled with fun and excitement and many memories of a good season of the great game of hockey.  See you on the ice!  Let’s Play hockey!