BLACKHAWKS HOST MITES AT UNITED CENTER

The Chicago Blackhawks, in conjunction with the Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois and USA Hockey, hosted their annual American Development Model clinic at the United Center. Participants are drawn from AHAI's MinorHawks program, which provides an economical introduction to hockey and teamwork for kids between the ages of 4 and 8. The eight-week program, which consists of on- and off-ice training sessions, is sponsored by the Blackhawks and USA Hockey. Participants receive free rental equipment, skates and a Blackhawks jersey, along with the opportunity to skate at the United Center ADM clinic, all for a total cost of only $75. "The success of the Blackhawks and their support, specifically from Annie Camins and Matt Brooks, along with help from USA Hockey and Mike Durkin at AHAI, have made this one of the premier youth grow-the-game programs in the United States," said Jim Clare, AHAI ADM director. "The kids benefit from learning in an ADM environment, and we've also seen growth in the number of new skaters as a result of the MinorHawks program."

The clinic at the United Center included a fun, high-energy station-based practice led by USA Hockey staff, Ken Martel and Kevin McLaughlin, followed by three cross-ice games. Approximately 50 to 60 kids participated in the clinic, which preceded Chicago's game against the Carolina Hurricanes. "The MinorHawks program does a great job of welcoming new players to youth hockey and developing the fundamental skills they need to excel at the next level," said Kevin McLaughlin, USA Hockey senior director of hockey development. "It gives them a fun, skills-focused environment for learning the game. And the MinorHawks' United Center clinic is a highlight we look forward to each year. "

Introduce a friend to a MinorHawks Program near you, click HERE to see what rinks are part of this program.

VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE UNITED CENTER ON FACEBOOK