Hockey Manitoba would like to inform all Minor Hockey Associations of a program developed a number of years ago by former Hockey Manitoba Master Mentor Bob Caldwell – Breakfast Clubs. There are currently numerous Breakfast Clubs successfully running in Manitoba but there is always room to grow.

Breakfast Clubs provide additional skill development opportunities through quality drills for players prior to their school day with participants taking part in an on-ice session followed by a nutritional breakfast. They are designed to make use of idle ice (one day per week) and be inclusive to all players interested in improving their skills and having fun. Additional philosophies of Breakfast Clubs include:

• Opportunity for players to get extra ice in a structured but creative setting
• Repetition using a variety of drills; specific to needs of the players
• Model good practice techniques and activities for coaches involved
• Voluntary program; no pressure or recruitment to participate
• Free of charge where possible

Hockey Manitoba encourages associations to develop a Breakfast Club program and will provide information including DVD's to assist in its development. Associations need to secure ice, a healthy breakfast and volunteers/coaches for the Breakfast Club sessions. Many current programs are completely sponsored by local businesses, arena, etc.

Breakfast Club Grants

Through Hockey Manitoba's Just Play program, supported in part by the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation, the following Breakfast Club grants are available to assist Minor Hockey Associations:

• $250.00 for Breakfast Club started in 2012-2013
• $100.00 for Breakfast Club started prior to 2012-2013

Simply fill out the Breakfast Club Grant Application Form on our website and forward to Hockey Manitoba (as indicated on the form) to receive your grant.

Breakfast Club Contest

Hockey Manitoba is also running a contest for all communities and associations that run a Breakfast Club for the 2012-13 season. We are interested in your Breakfast Club and would like to access the impact it is having on your community players. By submitting a short write-up, your association will be entered in a draw for one of three Hockey Canada Skills of Gold 8 DVD sets. Hockey Manitoba will post your testimonials on our website.

Simply submit a brief report and email it to us at info@hockeymanitoba.ca by December 1, 2012. In your report please mention the structure of your Breakfast Club, how often it runs, numbers involved and the impact it has on your minor hockey program. Feel free to include comments from players and parents as well.

For more information on Breakfast Clubs please contact Bernie Reichardt, Director of Development at bernie@hockeymanitoba.ca.

Thank you.

HOCKEY MANITOBA