The Flint Inner City Youth Hockey program is dedicated to introducing young people to the sport of ice hockey. On Sunday, March 24th, at 1:30 p.m., the program will host its highly anticipated “Big Game” at the Dort Financial Center in Flint.
Rico Phillips, a retired firefighter from Flint and the current director of Cultural Diversity and Inclusion for the Ontario Hockey League, has been spearheading this 9-week program since its establishment in 2010. His objective is to cultivate a passion for the game in children aged 7-12 by educating them on the fundamental principles of ice hockey and skating.
According to Phillips, the “Big Game” at the culmination of the program provides an ideal opportunity for the children to demonstrate the skills they have acquired and, most importantly, to have an enjoyable experience. For many of these children, it will mark their inaugural exposure to the excitement of playing an actual ice hockey game. The game will consist of an intrasquad scrimmage, allowing them to exhibit their newfound abilities and play in a manner akin to professional players.
With 25 children successfully completing the program out of the 30 who participated this year, Phillips is gratified by the program’s expansion and success. In his own words, “We were stronger this year than in years past.” Due to the support of the Eastern Michigan Hockey Association, two goalkeepers, referees, and an announcer will be present at the game to ensure the smooth running of the event.
Beyond simply educating children about sports, the program also imparts invaluable life lessons, particularly in a sport that may not be accessible to everyone. According to Phillips, one of the most significant takeaways from engaging in hockey is learning about perseverance. The demanding skill of ice skating teaches children to be resilient and to surmount their fears and uncertainties. This is a valuable lesson that they can apply beyond the realm of the rink.
Since its inception, the program has afforded 375 children the opportunity to partake in the sport without encountering any barriers, including providing transportation when necessary. This has been facilitated by the generous support of local sponsors who fund the program, thus alleviating families of any associated costs. Consequently, Sunday’s game at the Dort Financial Center will be free of charge for all attendees.
For updates and further information, the Flint Inner City Youth Hockey program can be followed on Facebook.
The Exciting “Big Game” for Flint Inner City Youth Hockey Program
