Assisting Alt will be students from the Conserve Environmental School in Land O’Lakes. The volunteers will help fit skates, make s’mores, and keep the fire stoked.

Alt’s main position with the Herb Brooks Foundation is directing the Foundation’s Rink Rats program, a learn-to-skate and play hockey program for 12 Minneapolis and St. Paul Elementary Schools. But once a year, the skating clinic in Land O’Lakes gives her a chance to reconnect with small town hockey in a community where her family has a cabin she visited regularly as she grew up.

The Rink Rats program provides opportunities for elementary age children to learn the basics of the game of hockey and skating. The program focus is aimed at kids who wouldn't normally be exposed to the game. Rink Rats has become a core program of the Herb Brooks Foundation’s mission to grow the game of hockey. Over 300 kids are participating in the Rink Rats program this winter season.

“This is a great opportunity for the Herb Brooks Foundation to teach skating in a setting that is so connected to the roots of hockey – skating outdoors with your friends and neighbors,” said Alt. “Clinics like this are right in line with the Foundation’s mission to grow the game of hockey.”

At a glance:

What: A free walk-in skating clinic at the Three Bear Winter Sled Dog Races.
Where: Land O’Lakes, Wisconsin.
When: Saturday February 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday February 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Who: All ages and abilities welcome. Skates will be provided.
For more information: Contact Amy Alt, 970.215.9173, aalt@herbbrooksfoundation.com.