Saving Girls' Hockey in Arizona: The Kachinas' Resilient Fight for the Future

The abrupt departure of the Arizona Coyotes has left a void in the state's hockey landscape, but one youth program is determined to keep the sport alive and thriving. The Arizona Kachinas, the only girls' hockey program in the state, faces a daunting financial challenge as it navigates the post-Coyotes era. With the team's relocation to Utah, the Kachinas have lost a crucial source of funding and support, forcing the program to find innovative ways to secure its future and ensure that the next generation of female hockey players can continue to pursue their passion.

Overcoming the Odds: The Kachinas' Resilient Pursuit of Girls' Hockey in Arizona

The Coyotes' Departure: A Blow to the Kachinas' Funding

The departure of the Arizona Coyotes has had a significant impact on the Arizona Kachinas, a youth hockey program that has been a lifeline for girls' hockey in the state. The Coyotes were a major supporter of the Kachinas, providing $250,000 in annual funding to the program. This financial backing was crucial in sustaining the Kachinas and enabling them to offer affordable opportunities for young female hockey players.With the Coyotes' relocation to Utah, the Kachinas have lost this vital source of funding, leaving the program in a precarious financial position. Ryan Travis, whose daughter plays on a Kachinas team, explains the challenge: "We are trying to keep that momentum going, but the cost is really expensive." The absence of the Coyotes' support has forced the Kachinas to seek alternative funding sources, adding to the burden on families already facing the high costs of the sport.

Overcoming Resource Limitations: The Kachinas' Resilience

The Kachinas' struggle is further compounded by the limited resources and rinks available in Arizona. "It is hard, especially in Arizona where we are limited in resources and rinks," says Travis. This scarcity of facilities and infrastructure poses a significant obstacle for the program, as it must now find ways to provide its players with adequate ice time and training opportunities.Despite these challenges, the Kachinas are determined to keep the sport alive and thriving in the state. Lyndsey Fry, the president of the Arizona Kachinas, is leading the charge to ensure the program's survival. Fry has established the Matt Shott Arizona Hockey Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aims to continue the Coyotes' "Learn to Play Program," which introduced children to the sport of hockey.

Fundraising Challenges: Adapting to the Post-Coyotes Era

The loss of the Coyotes has also impacted the Kachinas' ability to fundraise effectively. Previously, the program could leverage the team's presence and fan base to organize successful fundraising events, such as 50/50 raffles and player-led promotions. With the Coyotes no longer in the picture, the Kachinas must find new and creative ways to generate the necessary funds to sustain their operations.Travis explains the challenges: "At the games, we could do 50/50 raffles, we could have the girls out there promoting the game, getting different corporate sponsors." Without the Coyotes' platform, the Kachinas must now explore alternative fundraising strategies, such as hosting their own events and seeking support from local businesses and community members.

The Kachinas' Unwavering Commitment: Preserving the Legacy of Girls' Hockey

Despite the daunting obstacles, the Kachinas remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the legacy of girls' hockey in Arizona. Lyndsey Fry, a former Olympic hockey player, understands the transformative power of the sport and is determined to ensure that future generations of female athletes have the same opportunities she had.Fry's personal experiences have fueled her passion for the Kachinas' mission. "Everything good I have had in my life has come through this sport. Whether that be my education, career, memories with my family. It is such a special unique game," she says. This deep-rooted connection to the sport drives Fry and the Kachinas to find innovative solutions to secure the program's future.The Kachinas' resilience and determination are evident in their efforts to adapt to the post-Coyotes landscape. From hosting a golf fundraiser to exploring new corporate partnerships, the program is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to ensure that girls' hockey continues to thrive in Arizona. The Kachinas' unwavering commitment to the sport and the young athletes they serve serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of youth sports.