The Regina Ringette Association (RRA) is excited to introduce a new Goalie Incentive Program designed to attract and retain goalies in our sport. The program will support new goalies, part-time goalies, and existing goalies over the next three years.
Like many ringette associations, the RRA continues to face challenges attracting and retaining enough goalies to fill all of our team positions. There are many factors that contribute to this, but one significant barrier can be the financial cost associated with playing goalie.
Goalie equipment is considerably more expensive than regular player equipment, and as young athletes grow, families can find themselves replacing pads, sticks, and other equipment every year or two. We want to remove that financial burden from families and make the decision to become a goalie easier and more accessible.
To put the need into perspective, the RRA has approximately 450 athletes in our youth program, but only 21 goalies. Almost every season, we face challenges filling the goalie position on every team, and this year is no different.
Our Commitment
The RRA has committed to funding this Goalie Incentive Program for the next three years, with the following supports:
- Free registration for both full-time and part-time goalies.
- First-time goalies in U12–U19: $800 toward team fees.
- Part-time goalies and goalies in their second year or beyond: $400 toward team fees.
- Goalie equipment available to borrow at no cost, including:
- Goalie pads
- Goalie sticks
- Blocker
- Keely
- Chest protector
- If the RRA does not have equipment in the appropriate size for a goalie, we will purchase the necessary equipment to ensure they have what they need to play safely and comfortably.
Our Goal
Through this incentive program, the RRA hopes to encourage more families to consider having their child try goaltending without the financial concerns that can sometimes come with the position.
We want families to know that the cost of goalie equipment should not be a reason for an athlete not to become a goalie. By providing registration support, assistance with team fees, and access to properly sized equipment, we are removing one of the biggest financial barriers families may face.
Just as importantly, we are investing in the future of ringette in Regina. By creating a stronger pathway for athletes to try, develop, and remain engaged as goalies, we can build a sustainable goalie community for years to come.
Our ultimate goal is simple: to ensure that every athlete who wants to play ringette has a team to play on and that every team has a goalie in the net.
We hope this program will encourage more athletes to give goaltending a try, support the families who make that choice, and help ensure that athletes across the RRA can continue playing the game they love.
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