Hello MN Hockey Community! I am glad you are here!

First and foremost, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for your enthusiasm for Puck Yea! Hockey and this exciting new league! Your support has been truly overwhelming, and I can’t thank you enough! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!

For those who may not know me, I’m Jenna Thompson and I’m deeply involved in the Minnesota hockey community. I’m extremely excited and eager to embark on this new adventure with all of you!

A little about me... My hockey journey started at the age of ten (shoutout to my mom!) after spending a year playing ringette. I’ve been actively involved in various leagues across the Twin Cities ever since, and over the past 6–7 years, I’ve discovered a passion for traveling to tournaments. Hockey is truly a global sport that offers amazing opportunities to meet new people, make lifelong friends, and explore different cultures. I’ve been fortunate to compete not only across the U.S. but also internationally in Finland, Estonia, France, and Australia—where I’ve even celebrated championship wins in France and Australia! Here’s a friendly tip: Take some time to research why participating in a koala cuddle while in Australia might not be the best idea. You’ll be glad you did!

I have many goals, ideas, and visions for this new league, but I want to focus on one in particular first. Puck Yea! Hockey isn’t here to compete with the existing hockey organizations in the Twin Cities—it’s here to complement them. We believe there’s room to provide something unique that enhances the hockey community while aligning with and supporting what’s already in place. We are committed to promoting, partnering with, and actively participating in the already well-established organizations throughout Minnesota. We genuinely want to contribute to their ongoing success and foster the growth of the sport as a whole!

Second, I would like to touch on our goal of creating a welcoming and inclusive women’s hockey community where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to participate. The sense of community that hockey fosters is one of the most precious aspects of the game for me and over the years, I’ve been truly lucky to meet so many incredible individuals and forge friendships with those who share my passion for hockey.

Here are some goals to guide this effort:

1.       Build a Supportive Culture

Foster a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or exclusionary behavior.

Provide safe spaces for open conversations about challenges and experiences within the hockey community.

2.       Emphasize Inclusivity

Actively welcome players of all skill levels, ages, and identities, including trans women, non-binary players, and underrepresented groups.

Create beginner-friendly programs to encourage new players to join without intimidation.

3.       Representation Matters

Highlight diverse role models in women’s hockey through events, social media, and mentorship programs.

Ensure leadership and coaching positions reflect the diversity of the community.

4.       Encourage Community Engagement

Host social events, tournaments, and skill-building clinics to strengthen bonds within the group.

a.       Partner with local schools, community centers, or other organizations to introduce hockey to more women and girls.

5.       Celebrate Achievements

Recognize individual and team milestones to make all members feel appreciated.

Showcase stories of perseverance, growth, and triumph within the community.

6.       Open Lines of Communication

Regularly gather feedback from members about their experiences to improve inclusivity efforts.

Maintain transparent communication about league goals, policies, and opportunities.

By actively working toward these goals, a women’s hockey community can thrive as a space where everyone feels empowered to participate, connect, and grow—on and off the ice. 🏒

I am so excited to embark on this new adventure with Puck Yea! Hockey and can't wait to develop this league alongside all of you!

Please reach out if you have any questions, concerns, ideas, recommendations, or just to say hi! I have an open door policy!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being a part of this journey with me! PUCK YEA! Let’s goooo!

Xoxo

Jenna