#MIKidsCan Giveaway: Youth Hockey Players Heat Up During Winter Chill
| 2 min read
During the cold winter months it can be challenging to get kids off the couch, let alone outside of the house. But for youth hockey players, the chill of Michigan’s cold winter months is a sure sign it’s time to sharpen their skates and hit the ice.
Hockey is one of the most physically strenuous sports, with an average of 480 calories burned per hour. Any parent who has carried their kid’s sweat-soaked hockey gear to the car after practice can attest to the intensity.
The sport of hockey has many health benefits for children including improved strength, coordination, balance and decision-making. In addition, research has indicated playing sports such as hockey as a child could help shape success in the workplace as an adult by helping develop communication skills and character.
But all that intensity comes with risk of injury, so it’s important for kids to play it safe. USA Hockey recommends proper fitting equipment – “everything from shoes to mouth guards, pads and protectors” to help prevent injury on the ice.
As a way to thank our loyal Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network customers and encourage them to stay active this winter, the Healthier Michigan team is giving away an opportunity to be a future #MIKidsCan Youth Skater. In addition, the winner will receive four tickets to the game, a youth Red Wings jersey, and photos of the experience.
What healthy lessons has your child learned from playing hockey? To enter simply share your answers with us by leaving a comment below, and your child could be the #MIKidsCan Youth Skater of the Game on Monday, Feb. 16!
This contest is open to current customers of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or Blue Care Network. Entries will be accepted Jan. 23 through 11:59 a.m. on Jan. 30. Youth skaters must be between the ages of 8 and 12 years old and must have access to skates, a helmet and hockey pads. To see the full list of official rules click here.
Photo credit: RichardBH
