One of Oxford Junior Stars’ young players is loving the chance to test herself as an ice hockey goalkeeper, with support from the 2023/24 Netminder Development Programme.
Part of their U16s side, Lexi was given netminder gear on loan as part of the scheme – which is proudly supported by Puck Stop and Bauer – and hasn’t looked back since.
The kit has been provided to her for a number of weeks, and Sam, mother of Lexi, explains why the programme has been such a blessing as her daughter looks to find her favoured hockey position.
“I’m super grateful for this scheme and think it’s a great opportunity for Lexi to have a go as a goalie.
“It also gives me time to sort a kit, should she commit to being a netminder.
“As a single mum with two kids in hockey, it’s a big relief because I’ve not had to source a kit for Lexi, only for her to decide she doesn’t like it after all – although looking at her tonight, she’s loving it!”
About the Netminder Development Programme
The EIHA are committed to providing opportunities for young people to get involved in hockey and removing as many barriers to participation as possible.
In collaboration with Puck Stop and Bauer, we are excited to have been given the opportunity to relaunch the Netminder Development Programme for the 2023/24 season.
This is a fantastic opportunity for junior players to loan Bauer netminder kit at no cost, allowing them to try the netminder position before investing in their own equipment.
Bauer have supplied five sets of full protective equipment – everything except more personal items such as helmet, skates, stick and jock – to PuckStop, allowing individuals to start applying to loan the netminder gear.
Essential Criteria
• Player has limited or no prior netminder experience
• Player is a current member of a junior club
• Player does not have access to own netminder kit
• Player is playing ice hockey in England or Wales
Application Process
Applications can be made as follows:
- Round 1 applications are open from 8th September 2023 to 6th October 2023. Successful applications will receive kit on loan from 29th October 2023 to 11th December 2023.
- Round 2 applications are open from 30th November 2023 to 8th January 2024. Successful applicants will receive kit on loan from 15th January 2024 to 15th April 2024.
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