We wanted to take a moment to update you all regarding the payment plan for the hockey programs, Learn to Skate reminders, an update to on ice masking, and to pass along a note from one of the Stampede board members Dr. Jeff Van Lone.
There haven’t been any changes communicated from the Sunbury Rink management regarding the Rink opening. At this point they are continuing to monitor the COVID situation and a tentative December 7th date is still the plan. A final decision is set to be made this weekend. We will update everyone once a decision is finalized as soon as possible. Please be advised that the practice schedule will likely change if the rink does open. We will send an email once everything is completed as soon as possible.
The December 1st Payment for the hockey programs will NOT be cancelled. If we aren’t able to return to the rink in December, we will work on other options.
Learn-to-Skate is still tentatively starting December 10th. Participants have the option to cancel their registration and receive a refund. Reminder regarding equipment for LTS – please bring at least a helmet and gloves. It is recommended to have knee pads and elbow pads as well. If you are requiring skates for Learn-to-Skate, please respond back to this email with a participant name and size. This will help the club to be prepared and allow things to go a bit smoother. We need volunteers to help with temperature checks. Please reach out to this email address: svyhlpa@gmail.com if you have further questions.
USA Hockey Atlantic District has provided an update regarding mask wearing on the Ice. (see the links below) We as a board are still attempting to understand the requirements of USA Hockey as well as the Sunbury City Ice Rink.
https://www.atlantic-district.org/news_article/show/1133995
https://www.atlantic-district.org/news_article/show/1134920
Regardless of our rink’s stance/USA Hockey, other rink’s and clubs are requiring a mask on ice, so they will be necessary for future games/tournaments. -Hershey, Twin Ponds, Klick Lewis, etc. We would advise you to think about a mask for on the ice. CCM offers one that straps to the helmet and isn’t tight to the participants face. Link to it here
Please read below a letter from Dr. Jeff Van Lone-
Stampede Families:
I hope you all had some time to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday and get some rest.
It is disappointing that our young hockey players will not be able to get on the ice due to the recent closure of the rink. For many of our kids, this may be one of multiple activities that they will not have access to in the short term, and it is a significant loss for them. Youth sports provide young athletes with numerous experiences that are invaluable to their development including — a consistent, positive social network and outlet; regular physical activity; an opportunity to learn, grow, compete and work together with teammates; multiple occasions to face and overcome challenges and adversity with the support and feedback from coaches and teammates; and the development of a strong work ethic.
It is a challenging time for us, as parents, to support our families during the pandemic, and the subsequent loss of youth activities. Increased isolation, less physical activity, the development of poor habits including unhealthy diets, increased use of electronics and social media, and a compromised sense of safety may potentially impact the physical and mental health of our kids.
Some suggestions for supporting the health and wellness of our youth during this time include:
Manage Your Own Health – It is normal for all of us to experience anxiety, frustration, sadness and/or burnout during the pandemic. Get the social support you need, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet as best you can. It is difficult for us to be accessible to support others when we are weighed down ourselves.
Reframe This Time as a “Break” and/or an “Opportunity” – It is understandable that our kids are frustrated and disappointed that they are not able play right now. Instead of joining with them in this frustration, focus on the gift that this provides to all of us to take a break and spend some quality time with each other. Go for walks together, listen to their stories, work on a house project with them — anything that helps them to feel more connected and less isolated. Remember that parents are typically the most influential models for their children. If they consistently witness us making the best of this time away from hockey, they will learn to do the same.
Unplug – One of the greatest challenges with more time at home is the potential for children and adolescents to retreat into their phones, tablets and computers, playing video games and accessing social media. While there may be modest benefits to connecting with others online, and while these “mind numbing” experiences may feel like a break at times, overuse may leave kids feeling more isolated, seldom contributes to meaningful enjoyment or growth, and often promotes anxiety. Help your family to set limits and reduce electronic use in favor of activities with more face-to-face contact.
Connect and Show Affection – It may seem simple, but hugs from Mom and Dad are one of the most important things we can provide our kids during these times. Finding opportunities to show affection is one of the best counters to the social isolation they may be experiencing.
Seek Assistance When Needed – It is not uncommon for kids to have more significant mental health concerns during this time. The conditions created by the pandemic (e.g., isolation, a threatened sense of safety, and reductions in physical activity) mirror some of the typical conditions that promote psychological trauma, and the development of anxious and depressive symptoms in this current environment are natural responses for many children and adolescents. If someone in your family is struggling, they may need more help. Reach out to a physician, psychologist, or school counselor and consult about how to best meet the needs of your child.
Thank you for all you do for our hockey club. I am grateful to be a part of this community, and I appreciate the time you afford to support this program. I know my own sons have benefited a lot from the many adults who dedicate their time to contribute to the development of all of our players.
Stay safe and I hope to see you soon at the rink.
Best,
Jeff