A unique one-day hockey camp is coming to the Drylands Arena in Ashcroft on Monday, January 30, which is a non-instructional day for School District No. 74 students.
The camp—a joint B.C.-wide initiative between the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Doctors of B.C., and Child/Youth Mental Health—combines hockey skills with mental health activities such as relaxation, meditation, and breathing techniques, and is designed for participants aged 13 to 19. The idea is that participants will get a good workout on the ice, then use relaxation techniques to calm themselves down and be ready to face the ice again.
“It’s in support of youth, mental health, and avoiding substance abuse,” says Deanna Horsting of Make Children First. “It’s the first time it’s been offered here.”
Hosting said they wanted to reach out to youth via something they were interested in, and hockey was the answer. However, she notes that participants do not have to be registered in minor hockey, know how to play hockey, or even have equipment, as the camp is open to all who want to try.
“All the equipment is provided, including skates,” says Horsting. Lunch and snacks are also provided, and there is no charge for the camp, which runs from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
There is space for 40 participants, and there have already been 20 registrations. For more information, or to register, call (250) 682-4438.