COOKEVILLE – The Nashville Predators are giving their support to Cookeville Leisure Services for its first youth hockey clinic.
It’s happening Nov. 13 at Cane Creek Gymnasium. Participation is $10, and registration is open through Nov. 5. Grades K-2 will play from 9-10:30 a.m. and grades 3-5, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
“The Nashville Predators are thrilled that Cookeville wanted to put this clinic on, and we are ready and willing to support in any way we can,” Kristen Bowness, Director of Youth Hockey Fan Development for the Nashville Predators, said. “We appreciate the support from our fans, and this is an excellent opportunity to make new ones.”
Certified USA Hockey Coach Christopher DeVore will lead the clinic.
“I grew up playing hockey,” he said. “I was born in Alaska, so it comes with the territory. I’ve been playing since age 3 and played through college.”
What can participants expect to learn and experience at the clinic?
“There is no ice, so this is just ball hockey,” DeVore said. “With ball hockey we can teach basic hockey knowledge and skills – an introduction to equipment as well as hockey stick work, including stickhandling, passing and shooting. Then we hope to do a small scrimmage.”
Bowness added, “The great thing about street hockey is that is allows for a more welcoming environment to try hockey for the first time. These athletes can learn the various elements of the game without having to worry about learning how to ice skate too. Many of the same skills can be taught and practiced while in athletic shoes.”
Hockey equipment will be provided during the clinic.
“Kids can wear gloves of any variety and soccer shin pads if they’d like, but nothing is required,” DeVore said.
Seth Bruton, Cookeville Leisure Services athletic superintendent, added, “We are pleased to have an opportunity to work with the Nashville Predators to bring exposure of the game of hockey to the Cookeville area. Hopefully, we can build a foundation for hockey to grow among the youth and one day expand this out to potential camps and leagues.
Register HERE or call 931-526-9767 for more information.
DeVore said, “I just hope participants have fun trying something new. If one family gets a street hockey goal, some sticks or hockey skates after this event, then I’d say it’s a success.”
