The Preds also hosted their second annual Girls Hockey Day on Sunday at Bridgestone Arena, thanks to the tireless efforts of Girls Hockey Coordinator Erin Genereau, Diversity Hockey Manager Jennifer Boniecki and Director of Youth Hockey Fan Development Kristen Bowness.
"We were thrilled to host the second annual Preds Girls Hockey Day at Bridgestone Arena and it is something we aim to make bigger and better each year," Bowness said. "This day is simply a celebration of girls and women's hockey in Nashville, to provide a safe and welcoming environment for those who are looking to try it for the first time, receive quality coaching from our great Ford Ice staff and build relationships within the hockey community. Girls and women of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to join us from throughout SMASHVILLE."
The event featured six different clinics, each with a different focus, for girls of all ages. Decorated U.S. Olympian Megan Bozek was also in attendance to help with the various clinics held throughout the day.
"Having Megan Bozek here was such a privilege and created a great experience throughout the day, especially for the young girls to see firsthand where hockey can take you in life," Bowness said. "She's had a phenomenal career playing with the Minnesota Golden Gophers and on the international stage with Team USA. The fact that she chooses to stay in the game to give back to the hockey community says a lot about her character and drive to create a positive atmosphere for all."
Ford Ice Center Bellevue offers girls-only programs such as Learn to Play, PREDecessor, and skills clinics. In addition to a summer camp hosted by another former Olympian Lyndsey Fry, this summer Genereau and her team will also kick off an eight-week Learn to Play program for girls ages 10 and older who are new to the sport.
"If you want to play hockey, we are going to give you that opportunity," Bowness said. "Whether it's on ice, in the street, in a sled or with other adaptive equipment we will ensure that the true meaning of Hockey is for Everyone continues to be at the forefront of everything we do."
There are a variety of opportunities for girls to play hockey in Nashville, regardless of age or skill level. Preds Girls Hockey is an initiative created for girls of all ages (4-17 years old) in partnership with the Nashville Predators and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund.
"The Preds organization has done it right," Bowness said. "Establishing a fully inclusive environment is an everyday focus, not just something to celebrate for a night. They have and continue to make huge strides to eliminate all barriers and I am beyond thankful to be along for the ride."
To learn more about girls hockey programs in SMASHVILLE, visit
NashvillePredators.com/GirlsHockey
.
