While Canada has seen a steep decline in children playing hockey in the sport’s birthplace, the United States has experienced steady growth in that department over the past decade
In the fiercely competitive world of ice hockey, the United States has experienced a remarkable surge in youth participation over the past decade, fueled by strategic efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity, as well as a significant boom in girls’ involvement. This growth trajectory has positioned the U.S. as a rising power in the sport, challenging Canada’s traditional dominance.
At the heart of this success story lies USA Hockey’s commitment to broadening the game’s appeal and accessibility. Through initiatives like free gear distribution and learn-to-play programs, organizations are breaking down barriers and introducing hockey to diverse communities that previously lacked representation.
“That’s kind of what roped us in,” said Phil Gershkovich, whose sons Eli and Josh got involved in hockey through such an initiative in the Phoenix area. “That gets a lot of people in, and that’s a good avenue.”
One of the driving forces behind the U.S. growth has been the remarkable surge in girls’ participation. USA Hockey reported over 70,000 girls under age 18 registered to play in 2022-23, a figure that could soon surpass Canada. The inaugural season of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) and the success of the U.S. national team at recent Olympics have further fueled this momentum.
“Whether it’s female hockey, if it’s just underserved communities, even our disabled community, if you can see it, then you can be it, and it makes way more impact,” said Kevin Erlenbach, USA Hockey’s assistant executive director of membership.
Fostering diversity and inclusion is a key priority for organizations like New York-based 43 Oak Foundation, which provides opportunities for minority and underprivileged kids to progress through the game. Sean Grevy, the foundation’s founder, emphasized the importance of making hockey more inclusive and accessible to people from all backgrounds.
“My main goal, my main focus, my main priority with this program is to make this sport more inclusive so that other people from other backgrounds that experience that same level of camaraderie that we were also lucky enough to experience as kids ourselves,” Grevy said.
In addition to diversity initiatives, USA Hockey has implemented structural changes to enhance the youth experience, such as mandating smaller rink sizes for younger age groups. This approach has tripled the number of skaters on the ice at one time, giving them more opportunities to touch the puck, hone their skills, and enjoy the experience more.
As the U.S. continues to make strides in growing and diversifying its hockey community, industry leaders are optimistic about the sport’s future and its ability to attract a wider range of participants, ultimately strengthening its position on the global stage.
via: Ottumwa Courier
via: AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
