Mid-Season Check-in from the Chair

Welcome to the halfway point of our season.

It’s hard to believe that we’re already midway through another Bend Rapids Youth Hockey season. By every measure, it’s been a successful one. Our teams have experienced wins and losses (with the notable exception of the 18U AA Cascade Selects, who don’t seem to know what losing looks like), but more importantly, we’ve seen young men and women growing as individuals through the game of hockey which is our mission.

By this point in the season, thousands of volunteer hours have been contributed by parents, team managers, and coaches. That time and energy ensures our players are learning, competing, and laughing both on and off the ice. Behind the scenes, our steering committee continues to work diligently and passionately, taking care of the many small but critical details that keep our program running smoothly and set us up for long-term success.

What has stood out to me most is how our players are embodying what it means to be fearless, selfless, and inspired. Whether it’s pushing themselves and each other during power skating clinics, giving full effort in practice, or doing the simple things like picking up pucks and leaving locker rooms tidy, I’m consistently impressed by how they carry themselves and represent our program.

While it’s a great moment to reflect, now is not the time to rest. The schedule ramps up quickly in the new year, with games coming fast and often for many teams in the weeks ahead, culminating for most at the State Tournament in mid-March. Based on the growth I’ve seen so far, I’m excited to watch our players continue to compete, improve, and rise to the challenges ahead.

None of this would be possible without the support of our parents, players, team managers, coaches, steering committee members, Bend Parks and Recreation District staff, and the broader community that makes Bend Rapids Youth Hockey viable. I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate just how fortunate we are to be part of this hockey community.

Thank you for all that you do, and I’ll see you at the rink.

Kevney Dugan, Chair of the Steering Committee