Youth hockey gets ready for season

    A new hockey season is starting for the Southern Aroostook Minor Hockey Association and Kinny Corthell, ACE coordinator for SAMHA, has announced several key items of interest.
    First, the regular season play will be in the USA. All SAMHA programs will be playing in the U.S. this year as opposed to Canada. USA Hockey is restructuring and all regular season games are not expected to be beyond the Bangor/Brewer area. This will be easier for travel and eliminate any problems crossing the border.
    Secondly, there is still a need for sponsors. Many people don’t realize SAMHA pays $90 per hour to the town for ice time and the annual fees for players are directly dependant upon the number of sponsors for the organization. Letters will be arriving soon to many businesses and their support is very much appreciated and necessary for SAMHA success.
    Also, there is a need for coaches this season. Organizers are looking for volunteers to help youth hockey players. Coaches are especially needed at the younger ages from learn to skate and learn to play programs.  Applications are due on Sept. 15 and are available on the website at samha.goalline.ca.
    Organizers are inviting all kids to come play, and want to let everyone outside of the Houlton school systems know they are welcome, as well. Organizers would like to see children from Danforth to Medway, as well as Patten participate.  
    “We would particularly like to see new faces for our all female team(s) and beginners,” said Corthell. “SAMHA has confidential scholarships available and would like to encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity.”
    Corthell is available via e-mail at ace@samhahockey.org or 538-6730 and much more information is available online at the SAMHA website samha.goalline.ca or samhahockey.org.