Empowering Youth, Growing Hockey
At Houston Youth Hockey Group, our commitment is to make youth hockey accessible and affordable for every child in Houston. Starting Summer 2024, we will be operating a roller hockey program and are launching NHL Street in the Houston area to bring hockey into the lives of more children. We partner with local schools, sports leagues, community centers, and diverse organizations to create new opportunities for children of all backgrounds. Our mission is twofold: to expand access to youth hockey through equipment, coaching, and training resources, and to ensure that no child is left out due to a lack of resources. Our efforts aim to provide every child in Houston with the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of hockey.
Our Core Values:
Engagement: We leverage hockey as a powerful tool to teach underprivileged youth essential life skills such as commitment, perseverance, and teamwork. By introducing them to disciplined and dedicated role models, we open doors to new possibilities. Our coaches use hockey to develop critical skills including problem-solving, communication, goal-setting, and teamwork, preparing our youth for future success.
Growth: We aim to significantly increase youth hockey participation among boys and girls aged four to ten throughout the Houston Metroplex. Our vision is to foster a diverse and inclusive hockey community where every child feels welcomed. Initiatives include providing equipment, coaching, and mentorship to children from underserved areas, as well as offering scholarships to help cover participation costs. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and expansive hockey environment.
Our Programs:
As hockey gains traction in our city, our Community Engagement Program is crucial in promoting the sport. We teach hockey fundamentals both on and off the ice, making the sport accessible to everyone. Despite limited ice availability, we strive to provide affordable access, allowing continual skill development. Through our partnership with NHL Street, we introduce children to hockey in a fun and engaging way, enhancing our presence at community events and schools and reaching a broader audience.
Operational Structure:
Board of Directors: Our board of six directors oversees the Houston Youth Hockey Group. Although they operate independently, they value and incorporate feedback from various stakeholders within the hockey community.
Relations with USA Hockey and TAHA: As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are not directly affiliated with USA Hockey or the Texas Amateur Hockey Association, but our on-ice activities are conducted through partnerships with USA Hockey-registered rinks or organizations.
Local Program Relations: We are dedicated to expanding hockey's reach in Houston and openly collaborate with any organization, rink, or governing body that shares our vision, promoting hockey's growth across all ages and skill levels.
Conflict of Interest Guidelines: All board members must disclose any conflicts of interest upon joining. Our conflict of interest policies, outlined in our bylaws, are regularly updated by the board to ensure fairness and integrity in our operations.
