Urban Summer Street Hockey Comes to Worcester

WORCESTER, MA— In an effort to broaden youth participation at state managed facilities this summer, the Baker-Polito Administration announced on Monday that the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will join with DAJ Hockey, LLC and the Boston Bruins Alumni to conduct a series of street hockey events in Brockton, Lawrence, Lowell, New Bedford, Springfield, and Worcester as part of its Urban Summer Street Hockey program.

“It is incredibly important that kids receive great access to recreational opportunities across the state, especially during the summer months, and I am very proud to be able to offer my support of the Urban Summer Street Hockey Program,” said Governor Charlie Baker in the announcement. “When state government works in cooperation with private partners, such as DAJ Hockey, we are able to leave a long lasting impact that will directly benefit today’s youth.”

Clinics happen between 6-8 p.m. and are held adjacent to DCR hockey rinks. Clinics include basic skills instruction, structured games/play time, and discussions on subjects such as teamwork, nutrition, bullying, and more. The clinics will also feature food, beverages, and free hockey-related promotional items.

“Throughout the summer, kids will learn the value and appreciation of outdoor recreation thanks to the creative thinking of this Administration and DAJ Hockey,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton in a statement.

The DCR’s Urban Summer Street Hockey program begins on July 19 and conclude on Aug. 25. The street hockey events are designed to provide youth with a high-quality athletic and educational experience delivered by some of hockey's greatest legends, including Rick Middleton, Glen Featherstone and Tom Songin, with more participants to be announced in the coming days. The events are free and open to youth from six to 15 years of age.

Urban Summer Street Hockey clinics will occur at the following locations:

· Brockton (Asiaf Arena) on July 19 and 26 and August 2;

· New Bedford (Hetland Arena) on July 20 and 27 and August 3;

· Springfield (Smead Arena) on July 21 and 28 and August 4;

· Lowell (Janas Arena) on August 9, 16 and 23;

· Worcester (Buffone Arena) on August 10, 17 and 24; and

· Lawrence (Valley Forum) on August 11, 18 and 25.

Full program details, updates, and news are available at DAJ Hockey Twitter andFacebook pages and at www.dajhockey.com.

Photo via Wikimedia Commons