Hockey Alberta teamed up with the Sherwood Park Crusaders to put on a Source for Sports Play SMART Jamboree in Strathcona at the end of January. With over 60 kids in attendance, the day was filled with a lot of fun activities both on and off the ice.
The Play SMART program is for both the parents and novice aged players which encourages them to take responsibility and ownership in making the game of hockey an enjoyable experience for all. SMART, an acronym for Shaping Minds Attitudes and Respect Together is the focus for province wide jamborees.
The Source for Sports Play SMART Jamboree combined on-ice and off-ice skills, fun and games as well as a classroom sessions for the parents. The parent component of the program discussed information such as equipment fitting, hockey administration and development, as well as dealing positively with coaches and referees. Players come away from the event with a jersey, some promotional items and a great day of fun.
The Sherwood Park Crusaders spent the day teaching these young athletes skills both on and off the ice. After lunch, the Crusaders signed autographs and hung out with the novice kids allowing these young players a chance to meet their hockey idols.
“The day was a lot of fun for everyone. The kids always look up to the Junior players, so having the Crusaders on and off the ice with the kids made it a very memorable day,” said Brian Scott, coordinator, grassroots development.
Play SMART Pete also attended the event by eating lunch and joining in on some of the off ice activities. The day concluded with an off ice group picture.
“The Jamborees help remind parents and kids that hockey is fun. At such a young age, it’s important to realize that the sport shouldn’t always be competitive, but a chance to make new friends and enjoy the atmosphere of a hockey rink,” said Brian.
The Play SMART Program was introduced to help spread the message of fair play and respect in the game of hockey. This program is taken very seriously and Hockey Alberta encourages everyone to follow the Play SMART theme. Not only is the Play SMART Program designed for players of all ages, it is also important for coaches, officials, administrators and parents to follow. |