Sport
Ice hockey's classy course
Friday 4 July, 2008 8:00am
THE Penrith Bears ice hockey team is not only travelling around the country to compete for the National Ice Hockey League premiership, they're promoting the game to local school children too, with the help of McDonalds Penrith Valley.
The Bears, who appeared at McDonalds Penrith for McHockey Day last Saturday, launched their McDonalds/NHL Street School Program, which provides equipment and activities to help students learn ice hockey skills outdoors.
McDonalds Penrith stores, along with the League, will be providing schools across Penrith with the chance to learn some new skills by creating an ice hockey environment outdoors.
The equipment includes sticks, pucks, goals and protective equipment.
Ian and Kathryn Garton, the McDonalds Penrith licensees who launched the Street School Program with the mayor on Saturday, said they are eager to sponsor the Bears because of their community involvement and strong development program.
"We wanted to sponsor a local team that gets involved in the local community. Penrith has the facilities to really build ice hockey as a local sport for juniors," Ian said.
"We are always encouraging the local kids to get active and join in team sports, and ice hockey allows children to learn new skills while making new friends."
The Penrith Bears are on top of the competition ladder.
Team captain Murray Wand believes the success is due to their commitment to each other as a team and the length of time they have been playing together.
"The years of playing together have built team trust. The team is also defending the premiership this year, so are even more driven to succeed," Wand said.
Wand believes the sponsorship of Penrith Valley McDonalds and the NHL can really develop the game and its support base.
"We have lots of loyal supporters in Penrith and plenty of young players that are eager to play in the national level," he said.
"The Street School Program will certainly strengthen the sport throughout the Penrith region."
The Penrith Bears play their next home game on July 19 against the Newcastle North Stars, at Penrith Ice Palace at 5.30pm.
Crowds are building this season, so be there early to show your support.
