Play ball… hockey!

WINNIPEG

WEST WINNIPEG

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/04/2023 (947 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Whether you are a young child just starting to play or someone who has played for decades, there’s a place for you at the Manitoba Ball Hockey Association.

Jeff Dzikowicz, technical director of the organization, said the MBHA offers several learn-to-play programs and leagues that run through May and June.

A recent addition to the MBHA program roster is a Learn to Play program perfect for children between the ages of four and six. Kids learn and practice skills while also getting the chance to apply them in scrimmages. He added that it is an excellent way for them to learn about hockey without their parents having to buy all the equipment required for ice hockey.

Whatever your age, ball hockey provides the opportunity to play the sport, Dzikowicz said. There are leagues for players of all ages, from youth to 35-plus; women’s and co-ed leagues are also popular.

Ball hockey brings opportunities, too. Dzikowicz has represented Manitoba at national championships in every province and major Canadian city. He said that 28 Manitobans will play for Team Canada in various age groups in 2023. A recent women’s team captured a silver medal at the national championships.

“If they want an opportunity to play for their country, ball hockey is a good route,” Dzikowicz said.

In addition to providing opportunities, ball hockey also attracts ice hockey players who want to play throughout the summer. Dzikowicz sees entire teams, and many AAA and Western Hockey League players, come out to play.

“It’s a different version of the game,” he explained. “It’s good for hand-eye co-ordination, cardiovascular conditioning, and cross-training. It offers the same elements as hockey, yet it’s a little bit different.”

“ If they want an opportunity to play for their country, ball hockey is a good route…

Programs are designed with family schedules in mind, Dzikowicz added. Games are played Mondays through Thursdays, and regular-season play concludes by the end of June. Registration fees are affordable, and the equipment required is a helmet, stick, gloves, shorts, and shin pads.

“We believe we are one of the most economically viable sports for people to play,” Dzikowicz said, adding that the MBHA also ensures strong competition by placing players with others of a similar skill level.

Spring ball hockey leagues begin in late April. Adult league games are played at St. Norbert and Varsity View arenas while youth league games are held throughout Winnipeg. A typical youth season will consist of between one and three practices and 10 to 12 games. Registration fees vary between $60-$250.

For more information, visit manitobaballhockey.com or visit them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.