Families looking for a new sport are being invited to Come Try Ringette by Ringette Alberta and the Indus Ringette Association March 26.
“I joined ringette as an adult 4 years ago and really wish I’d found it as a youth,” said organizer Lesley Bentein, “it certainly might have given me a healthier outlet as a teen and what parent doesn’t want that.”
The free event will be hosted at the Indus arena for kids 16 an under who are interested in learning about the sport or joining one of the association’s teams.
“We currently have about 110 players and are always looking to grow by more,” said Bentein, “we can easily accept about 10-20 new players.”
Currently Indus Ringette has nine teams ranging from active start through U10, U12, U14 and U16 teams.
At Come Try Ringette, kids will have the opportunity to join current players on the ice, meet the coaches and come see what ringette is.
“The event will likely begin and end with one of our game day cheers.
“The kids will get to skate, play games and participate in relays while learning some important skills used in ringette,” she said.
After participants finish on the ice they will be able to warm up with hot chocolate and cookies while they and their parents can get any additional information about the sport, association and the playing season.
Bentein said that the event will be a fun non-committal way to learn about Ringette and dispel some myths of the game.
One myth is that Ringette is just for girls, although it is played mostly by girls, everyone is welcome said Bentein.
Often thought of as hockey for girls, Bentein said that ringette actually has more in common with lacrosse and basketball terms of its offensive and defensive strategy and gameplay. It is also a very fast game.
“Ringette has earned the bragging rights of being called the fastest game on ice,” she said.
Ringette also promotes participation and teamwork. Bentein explained that the rules of play require cooperation, such as passing among teammates.
“Another advantage is that the rules of ringette are focused on safety with no intentional body contact allowed,” she said.
Playing ringette has a number of advantages said Bentein,
“The friendships that these kids foster are often outside of their school peer groups and can provide them a healthy reason to love winter,” she said, “parents will love watching their kids stretch and grow and can enjoy cheering them on in the stands.”
The ringette season starts in September goes until March.
Kids will be on the ice between one to three times per week for regular league play and practices with the option to participate in tournaments throughout the season.
While based in Indus, the Indus Ringette Association draws its players from Chestermere, Langdon, Indus and Dewinton.
Come Try Ringette is a free event but participants are required to register at www.cometryringette.ca. There is a link to the event on the Alberta page.
