Bloomington Kennedy Hockey

Kennedy Hockey's youth program is committed to success. Winning is our goal for every team at every level. We believe that preparation goes beyond on-ice development and that winning without integrity is not winning at all. Character, sportsmanship and a strong work ethic are life lessons that will allow our players to succeed—not just in sports, but in whatever they do. We strive to feed our high-school program with players prepared to compete with the best hockey teams in the state.

Every participant is critical to our success, and will have the opportunity to receive the coaching, development and support needed to reach their goals. We encourage our kids to dream big and then we give them the tools to achieve them.

Open Skate Fundraiser

There was a good turnout for the Open Skate Fundraiser on Sunday night.  There were almost 100 participants at the event, from brand-new skaters, students, adults, and hockey players from all three Bloomington Associations on the ice thoughout the evening.

 

Effective Wednesday, January 25, 2012, the penalty for boarding and checking-from-behind will be a minimum five (5) minute major penalty. This will cover all Minnesota Hockey sanctioned games played until July 31^st, 2012; after this time, the changes will be reviewed by the Minnesota Hockey Board of Directors.

Please see attached for further details.

April 2011

Why we play for the Kennedy Hockey Association

In June, the 1976 Kennedy hockey State Tournament team will be having a reunion here in Bloomington.  Guys are planning to attend from all parts of the country.  It got me thinking about the experience we had and the lessons we learned playing association hockey.  We improved not only our hockey skills, but also our social skills.  We worked together as a team, grew stronger both mentally and physically, and learned our responsibilities as leaders and role players.  Coach Jerry Peterson reminded us day after day after day that our team is only as good as its weakest link.  We all worked to improve each other.

Another valuable lesson to be learned playing association hockey is developing the endurance needed in dealing with a typical season’s ups and downs.  Every team has obstacles along the way, which provide opportunities for kids to work on problem-solving and social interaction skills.  Hopefully, they bond and grow into a group of young men ready to move on into careers outside of hockey.

As players-and their parents- grow older, the benefits of association hockey continue to have an impact in their lives.  I am always so impressed at weddings, funerals, and other events at the turnout and show of support from hockey families.  About five years ago, a former Kennedy hockey player named Brian Eidem died suddenly at the age of 27.  Every single one of his teammates and many of their parents were there to pay their respects and reminisce about their great days together.  Likewise, at many weddings of former players, there is always a huge contingent of teammates and “hockey families”.  The lifelong friendships made through spending season after season together are such a valuable part of real life.  Ultimately, isn’t this why we involve our kids in activities?

The Kennedy hockey association has access to three  quality rinks under one roof, has an organized board, and is developing a cohesive coaching curriculum from mites through high school.  Consider how committed you are to your teammates and other families in the organization.  Our association’s success depends on you.  Parents, get involved.  Players, work on your game.  We have two choices:  one is to complain and move on to so-called greener pastures; the other is to work hard and enjoy the time we have together.

I choose the latter.

Dave Dillion

Kennedy Varsity Hockey Coach