Programs like minor hockey help youth to become better adults, said the Sundre Minor Hockey Association's president.
"Minor hockey's more about life skills than it is about the game," said Ian Barnett, who's serving his first year as president following a term as vice-president.
The players learn about team play, responsibility, problem solving, coping with pressure and sportsmanship, he said.
"They learn to deal with a lot of situations. It helps them become better adults."
And the community has a history of being very supportive of the program, he said.
"That's been one of the easiest things in Sundre ó always ó is the support we get."
Even with the economic times being what they are and the oilpatch being what it is, people have still been offering great donations and prizes for the auction table fundraisers at the teams' tournaments, he said.
"We couldn't do it without the support of the community and the local businesses."
The tournaments hosted by the minor hockey teams also represent a boon for the community and local businesses, he said.
"We always bring in lots of people from out of town."
When 80-100 kids from out of town come to play for the weekend, it all adds up. That doesn't even include parents and friends who come with the visiting players for the tournaments, he said, adding they use local accommodations, restaurants and fuel.
"We always mention the museum, the pool ó all the stuff around that they can take part of when the games aren't going on."
It's been a really good season so far for all the Sundre minor hockey teams, he said.
"Everyone seems to be settling right in."
Things are always a bit more hectic in the lead-up to Christmas, but after the holidays, everyone seems to get in the groove until the end of the season, he said.
Barnett has been coaching for five years and is serving his fourth year on the board.
"I enjoy it. The time I'm out on the ice with the kids is always great."
It's encouraging to see the players improve their skills and develop into young adults, he said.
"That's the prize."
