Photo by Michael Caples/MiHockey

First-ever Hockey Week Across America starts Sunday

Photo by Michael Caples/MiHockey
Photo by Michael Caples/MiHockey

 

By @MichaelCaples –

Starting on Sunday, the coolest game on ice will be celebrated for an entire week across the country.

The first-ever Hockey Week Across America kicks off on Feb. 19, and it runs through Feb. 26.

The week-long event is intended to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Hockey Weekend Across America.

“We’re excited to expand this grand celebration of our sport to a week for the 10th anniversary,” said Dave Ogrean, executive director of USA Hockey. “We have so many people across the country at all levels that do so much and this week provides an excellent opportunity for associations and teams to honor them in their communities. It’s also a time to focus on giving new people a chance to try or perhaps see our sport for the very first time. Hockey is a growing part of the fabric of our sports culture in America and we look forward to sharing all the great things hockey offers to more and more families in communities across the country.”

Each day of the week-long celebration includes a special theme:

Sunday, Feb. 19 – Hockey Day in America – NBC Sports’ Hockey Day in America kicks off the festivities with live coverage of four NHL games and content celebrating hockey at all ages and skill levels. Coverage begins at noon, with the Red Wings making an appearance on the NBC national broadcast with their road contest in Pittsburgh.

Monday, Feb. 20 – Salute to Players – The first of a week-long salutes has USA Hockey celebrating everyone who laces up their skates and hits the ice to play our great sport.

Tuesday, Feb. 21 – Salute to Coaches – On Tuesday, it’s ‘Salute to Coaches’ day as we celebrate the men and women who donate their time, energy and patience to guide players of all ages and skills.

Wednesday, Feb. 22 – Salute to Officials – Just this once, we can look past our differences and thank our referees, who, nine times out of ten, probably saw that ‘infraction’ much differently than you did.

Thursday, Feb. 23 – Salute to Local Rinks – The place you spend more time in than your own home – say thanks to your local rink on Thursday, Feb. 23.

Friday, Feb. 24 – Wear Your Favorite Jersey Day – Sport that favorite jersey of yours on Feb. 24.

Saturday, Feb. 25 – Try Hockey Day – The most important day of Hockey Week Across America is Saturday, as rinks across the country will open their doors to new players who get a chance to experience all that hockey has to offer during Try Hockey For Free events.

Sunday, Feb. 26 – Celebrate Local Hockey Heroes Day – They make our sport a great experience for all; make sure you celebrate the people who go above and beyond to support hockey and its participants.