Abilene, Texas (BCH Sports) – Hockey has been a part of Big Country for 20 years, but we’re helping a local organization take it a step further.
Abilene hockey's goals are clear.
“Spreading the love of hockey and hockey as much as we can and giving kids and adults an opportunity to not only play hockey in Abilene, but other opportunities like traveling teams and opportunities to play college hockey and professional hockey,” Abilene Hockey President Jessica Marquez said.
Since its founding in 2019, Abilene Hockey has served as a place for kids and adults to pick up a stick and pursue their passion.
“We're giving people from a big country an opportunity to play hockey. It might be roller hockey instead of ice hockey, but people will still enjoy it. We're giving them a chance to play and a chance to get better,” Justin Marquez said.
The nonprofit hosts weekly pick-up games for adults and divisions for kids under 12 and under 18. The weekly skills sessions have been a big help.
Jessica Marquez added, “The best thing about Abilene hockey is what it teaches you. Hockey teaches you to get up when you fall. That's one of the best things, because kids have to learn to get up when they fall and keep going and keep persevering. It's not about what happened in the past, it's about the next play, what happens next.”
Lacing up skates may seem intimidating, but Abilene hockey players encourage you to give it a try.
Justin Marquez said, “Please, give it a try. If you want to give it a try, give it your all. I was scared the first time I tried, I thought I might get on the wheel and fall off, but I got up and gave it a go and I've been doing it for five years now and I've loved it ever since. So give it your all and give it a go.”
Abilene Hockey is accepting used hockey equipment to help future stars, so if you're interested, get in touch via Facebook Messenger to schedule a drop-off.
