In its 2nd year, the Shinny Program, spear headed by former NHL hockey player Rick Smith and his wife Annie, gives kids the opportunity to experience learning new hockey skills and play shinny with guest and community coaching.   Perhaps make a new friend or two as well.

The 2020 Shinny Program started on Tuesday night at the Westport Community Centre with approximately 35 kids aged 5 to 11 hitting the ice for the first session.  

Entirely volunteer based, and at no cost the the kids, the program appeared to be off to a great start on Tuesday, where, from my vantage point, it looked like  everyone, both volunteers and kids alike were having a fabulous time!

Leeds Chargers Minor Hockey Association now has 60 players registered in its current Initiation program for 4-6 year olds.

This number represents a substantial increase over previous years.   Two municipal councils and a Westport business have played major roles in the program’s success.

Both Westport and Athens' Councils have provided free ice time while Kudrinko’s of Westport purchased the jerseys and insurance for all the participants.

Come out and see the kids in action. They take to the ice in Westport each Saturday at noon (if a tournament is scheduled for a particular Saturday, the ice time will be rescheduled).  Look at the crowds they draw!