Icemen, Lightning & CF Igloo Announce Grow the Game Program

JACKSONVILLE, FL  -- The Community First Igloo in partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Jacksonville Icemen have announced the Grow the Game program.  The program provides an equipment scholarship for youth players who graduate from the Learn to Skate program and enroll in the Learn to Play program at the Igloo.

Aspiring youth hockey players who graduate from the Community First Igloo Learn to Skate program and become a new participant in the Learn to Play program, will become eligible to purchase a complete set of hockey equipment including hockey helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey skates, hockey gloves, hockey pants, shin guards, customized Tampa Bay Lightning Jersey, socks, stick and equipment bag all for a cost of $130, a value of over $350. 

In addition, Icemen players and coaches will also be participating in Learn to Play program sessions.

“We are excited to be able to partner with the Tampa Bay Lightning and our soon to be fully renovated ice facility the Community First Igloo to offer this wonderful program to allow more kids to play the game of hockey,” said Icemen President Bob Ohrablo.  “This program will allow players the opportunity to play longer and continue to develop their skills by easing the financial cost of the equipment necessary to play.  In addition, we want to continue to grow the sport locally by finding ways to introduce hockey to underserved communities in the region.  This program is just another great step in achieving this goal.” 

The Lightning organization is proud to partner with the Jacksonville Icemen and the Community First Igloo, to help ‘Grow the Game’ in the Jacksonville region,” said Lightning Executive Director of Community Hockey Development Jay Feaster.  “The mission of our Lightning Community Hockey department is to increase interest and awareness of and participation in our great sport of ice hockey.  This program provides a cost-effective way for youngsters to try the sport, learn the game, and embark on what can truly be a lifetime love affair both as a participant and as a fan.”

For questions regarding Learn to Play or Grow the Game programs, please contact Pam@CommunityFirstIgloo.com

The Community First Igloo is currently under a multi-million dollar renovation, which will include the addition of a second ice sheet, a full renovation of the original ice surface and building.  The facility will also include a restaurant and bar, pro shop, E-Sports arena and more.   The Community First Igloo will be utilized to grow youth hockey and figure skating programs, as well as serve the community by providing public skating lessons and skate sessions.