More than 14,000 U.S. kids try sport for the first time during USAH’s “Try Hockey For Free Day”

By @MichaelCaples –

The numbers are in, and they are fantastic.

USA Hockey has announced that more than 14,000 children tried hockey for the first time during the nation-wide “Try Hockey For Free Day” event on Nov. 7.

Nearly 500 sites across 48 states held ‘Try Hockey’ events on Saturday.

“This event is all about making local rinks an inviting place for new families,” said Pat Kelleher, USA Hockey’s assistant executive director of development, in a release. “It’s such a thrill to see all the smiling faces and hear parents talk about the memorable experience of watching their child try hockey.

“Volunteers across the country deserve a ton of credit. Their energy and passion made it a great introduction to the sport. We’re also grateful for the support from the NHL and its member clubs.”

USA Hockey’s “Try Hockey For Free Day” events are designed to provide a national platform for children to try the sport, free of charge. Gear for aspiring players – donated by USA Hockey and local rinks – is made available for the children so they can get a true sense of what it’s like to ‘suit up and hit the ice.’

The second “Try Hockey For Free Day” of the 2015-16 season will take place on Feb. 20, as part of Hockey Weekend Across America.

Check out MiHockey’s photos from a ‘Try Hockey’ event at Novi Ice Arena below: