The Michigan Amateur Hockey Association (MAHA) is proud to accept applications from associations and rinks interested in hosting a Try Hockey for Free event during the 2023-24 season!

With the support of Growth Partners, such as BIGGBY Coffee and T&I Credit Union, MAHA has the opportunity to offer a calendar of growth events (i.e. Try Hockey for Free, Girls Try Hockey for Free) in order to generate membership growth. These free clinics are designed to put boys and girls on the ice for the first time, offering their first chance to experience the game of ice hockey – a great way to grow your association! All events will be supported by MAHA through online registration, event coordination, on-ice instruction, equipment rental, event promotion and communication.

Approved host sites will be required to provide the following:

• One hour of ice
• Grassroots promotion of event*
• Access to rental skates
• Event Volunteers (recommended minimum is 20, based on 40 participants):
  • On-Ice: Bantam/Midget/HS age players to help with tutoring (provide 1-on-1 help for brand new skaters)
  • Registration – Check-in & check out
  • Equipment – Distribution and return, provide assistance to first-time participants
  • Recruitment – Off-ice liaison (director) to answer parent questions about association and its future programs
• Post-Event Program to Entice Participants to Join Association
  • Example: 4-week Learn to Skate / Learn to Play, priced at less than $100

All requested dates are subject to MAHA approval. Approved clinics may begin as early as September 2023, and potentially run through Spring 2024. While weekend dates are optimal, week night events are also available. Due to limited availability, all applications must be received by Sunday, October 8th.

Please note the dates for the National Try Hockey Events for this season, these events will have additional resources available to maximize your event.  Registration is now open for both these dates.  https://www.tryhockeyforfree.com/

• Saturday November 4th
• Saturday February 24th

For more information, including a Try Hockey for Free overview, scheduling information, parent resources and guidance for event activation, please visit the Try Hockey for Free page on the MAHA website. To apply for consideration as a host site, please click here submit your application.

Please contact Hockey Events Manager Jon Hosking (jhosking@maha.org) for any program questions or inquiries.

Thank you for hosting these tremendous growth events throughout the state of Michigan!