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| April 26, 2008
By Daryn Goodwin
Momentum
|  State of the sport in California
The economy may be weak and common sense might tell you that some of the extra things in life, like expensive sports, would be one of the things to greatly suffer. That certainly hasn’t been the case in this sport, at least around here. In fact, I think the sport is stronger in California than it has been for quite some time. It doesn’t mean that families aren’t hurting. It just means that this sport is truly a priority to them. Which also means they’re having fun.
The two largest rinks in California, 949 in So Cal and Silver Creek Sportsplex in Nor Cal are doing a great job of offering the complete package to their customer base. Strong learn-to-skate for the new kids, good house leagues with parity, and travel teams from multiple programs up the wazoo! Add this to the fact that these rinks have an incredible energy to them and the family’s that play at these rinks provide almost a cult-like environment, so it’s easy to fall in love with it all.
I’m sure the fact that the NARCh Finals are being held here has helped spark things a bit and certainly can’t hurt, but it’s not the only factor. There are actually some new rinks going up in California, and it’s been a while since we’ve been able to say that. The Army and Navy Academy in Carlsbad just had a rink go up and there’s another one erecting soon in Northern California, I believe around Manteca.
In addition, new people are getting involved in the sport and are on the right page. For example, the San Diego Rockets are a new program that just sprung up with 7-8 teams all based out of SD. The Las Vegas Aces are new to the travel experience and the Las Vegas Rebels program has gained a second wind as well. The OC Blades are back on the NARCh Train, after being off it for a few years. Since the Blades are a measuring stick for platinum in most ages, it’s great to have them back. By the way, their 95’s look unstoppable!
Momentum is important in sports and it’s also important to the sport. Right now California’s got it! Winternationals was great, this tourney was sold out, West Covina is shaping up nicely, and we’re adding another regional qualifier in Las Vegas on June 27th-29th to keep teams sharp before the NARCh Finals.
As you can probably tell, you don’t want to get me started about the sport. I may be busy at the events, but I’m willing to have lunch or chat for hours about the future. Seeing what I see here this weekend and the events so far this year, I’m very excited. I will always go the extra mile when driving this bus known as NARCh and I truly appreciate that everyone reading this is on board with me!
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