The Ducks, in partnership with USA Hockey presented a very successful California Hockey Day on Saturday, Nov. 7 at THE RINKS - Anaheim ICE. Children ages four-to-nine had the opportunity to join Ducks personnel on the ice for a free lesson on the basics of hockey. In addition to the free lesson, each participating child received a variety of prizes, including two free tickets to an upcoming Anaheim Ducks game.

“We’re excited to be involved in this state-wide initiative giving kids the opportunity to try hockey for free,” said Anaheim ICE General Manager Art Trottier. “Our organization is focused on growing the sport in Southern California and making it more readily available to children is a key part of that.”

The Ducks organization joined 16 other rinks from around the state for the inaugural California Hockey Day. With additional assistance from the California Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA) and OneGoal, boys and girls could take part in a special session that consisted of an introduction to hockey equipment, a learn-to-skate teaching session and a short “game” for all participants.

Former Duck Jason Marshall, Ducks mascot Wild Wing and play-by-play television broadcaster John Ahlers were present to encourage the novice youngsters. Each child was given full hockey equipment to use for the session, including a helmet, shin guards, hockey pants, socks, elbow pads, shoulder pads, gloves and a jersey.

The Ducks will also celebrate Saturday’s California Hockey Day during pre-game festivities at the club’s contest Saturday evening vs. Phoenix at Honda Center (7:05 p.m.). Six youth skaters from the Jr. Ducks and Lady Ducks programs will stand by Anaheim’s starting line-up during the national anthem. In addition to a free lesson, each participating child at Anaheim ICE will receive two free terrace-level tickets to an upcoming Anaheim Ducks home game. Every child will also receive a commemorative hockey stick that will be presented at the conclusion of the two-hour session. Finally, each participant will be encouraged to return to the rink with a free pass for two future skating sessions at Anaheim ICE.