Wolf Pack Hockey Club Anticipates Successful Season with Rink Enhancements
New enhancements coming to the Triphahn Ice Arena are getting the Wolf Pack Hockey Club really excited. Already this summer new ice surfaces were installed with the addition of new HVAC compressors and fresh paint was applied throughout the rink, which is owned and operated by the Hoffman Estates Park District (HE Parks). Plans will be presented to the Park Board of Commissioners in October for a new Off-Ice Training Facility. Upon approval by the Board, demolition will begin in the fall and be ready to go in time for the Spring season.
Amateur hockey associations nationwide have long recognized off-ice or "dryland" training as the most effective way for players to improve their game performance and their overall physical fitness. This involves a series of exercises that helps improve speed, agility, endurance and strength.
"Off-ice training is the best way for players to improve their fitness level, and their game," said Mike Kies, director of recreation and facilities for HE Parks. "Even for players who don't plan to continue with hockey long term, the benefits they'll gain from improving their physical fitness are so valuable to their overall health and wellness."
The new Off-Ice Training Facility will be located on the second floor of the Triphahn Center, adjacent to the rink where the Gymnastics Shelf is currently. Gymnastics will move to the Vogelei Barn.
"We're combining great training by some very accomplished coaches and players with a fun positive environment," said Assistant General Manager of Ice Operations Randy Jordan. "We are looking forward to many more successful hockey seasons in the coming years. Players are sure to enjoy their time at the rink and accelerate their skills too." Jordan has been coaching for more than 38 years and was instrumental in establishing the Wolf Pack Hockey Club for HE Parks.
Registration for fall hockey lessons is now open for kids as young as 3 years old. Parents can contact Jordan at rjordan@heparks.org or 847-885-7500 for more information, or browse classes online at heparks.org.
More about the Wolf Pack Hockey Club
The Wolf Pack Hockey Club is a Tier III club playing in the Northwest Hockey League (NWHL), and Tier II club playing in Northern Illinois Hockey League (NIHL). Since its inception in 2004 the Wolf Pack Hockey Club has become among the largest participating teams and player membership in the Northwest Hockey League. Exploding player registration numbers, a continued growth of existing players, and a focus on five skill advancement, has resulted in numerous championships and the development of many elite players.
About the Wolf Pack Hockey Club
In 2010-11, its first and probationary year at NIHL, the Wolf Pack fielded three teams. All teams were placed at the Silver level, and each team finished in the top 5 of the top tier, two won the President's Cup, and one finished second in the Blackhawk Cup. Following the 2010-2011 season, the Wolf Pack Hockey Club was approved a full Tier II program.
The WPHC has established a development philosophy that depends upon and prides itself on organic growth. The developmental program is responsible for starting hundreds of new hockey players with a solid hockey foundation recognized by USA Hockey. HE Parks made a sizeable investment in "one goal" equipment, the training of a number of focused coaches in a systematic (SUMO) process of development. The belief is that more well trained coaches and ice time engages, creates faster enjoyment and commitment to the sport, which has seen numbers go beyond any imaginable estimates.
About the HE Parks
Providing first-class parks, facilities, programs and services for a dynamic community of more than 50,000 in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, HE Parks operates two community centers, a premier 18-hole golf course, state-of-the-art fitness center, twin ice arenas, family aquatic center and more than 70 parks. In addition to Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, notable sites include the Prairie Stone Sports & Wellness Center, Triphahn Community Center & Ice Arena, Seascape Family Aquatic Center, Willow Recreation Center and Vogelei Park. HE Parks has won numerous national, state and local awards. For more information visit heparks.org or call (847) 885-7500.