Photos and Editorial By Steve Quinn | The Juneau Adult Hockey Association is in midseason form at Treadwell Ice Arena. At least five days a week players at all levels arrive at the arena for evening games. Each fall and winter season, the league crowns new champions. JAHA sponsors several co-ed tiers as well a woman’s tier. Its mission is to make hockey accessible and affordable to all adults of all skill levels.“Hockey is a perfect wintertime sport here in Juneau. It’s not weather dependent and it gives us all a great reason to leave home and get some exercise when it’s dark and rainy out.”
JAHA sorts three coed tiers according to skill level and women’s tier. Another division — one for players age 40 and older – feature players of mixed skill levels. The A Tier features some familiar faces, players who once played for Juneau Douglas High School as well as men and women who grew up with the sport before moving to Juneau. The B Tier includes players who aren’t as advanced, but the game remains fast-paced and often come down to one goal in the final minutes. The C Tier provides newer skaters a chance at competitive games and the prospects of one day advancing to the next level. The women’s brings upper and mid-level players together for a slate of competitive games.
JAHA is in its third year of offering a 40-plus division, which brings players of various experience on the same team and has grown to be one of the more popular tiers offered. “The variety of players JAHA has is great. From former high school, college, and junior hockey players who are very skilled and competitive to those who are just beginning or just want to play for the fun and challenge, there’s a place for everybody.”
The league also offers introductory class for those wanting to learn the game. The class is taught by some of the league’s season players. “The Intro to Hockey sessions have been well received and useful for new players to learn the rules of the game and some basic skating and stick handling techniques,” Soza said. “I’ve seen adult players put on skates and step on the ice for the first time in their life when they show up to their first JAHA game and learn that way, but these Intro sessions really add some structure around the learning process and make hockey less intimidating to new players.
“I always encourage people to try hockey at least once, even if they’ve never played before,” Soza said. JAHA and Treadwell Arena offer opportunities every year for players to come put on the gear and see what it’s all about.
“The hockey community here is very welcoming and supportive. It’s definitely one of those sports that once you get into, you’ll never look back”
For more information please contact: http://www.juneauhockey.org/