By Scott Carlson

The Minnesota Wild Foundation has chosen Langford Park hockey as one of the first participants in its new “Skate It Forward” program.

The goal of “Skate It Forward “is to one day make the first year of ice time free for everyone in Minnesota. The program’s tag line is “Hockey is hard enough. Getting on the ice should be easy.”

For the 2025-2026 season, the Wild Foundation selected 11 pilot youth hockey associations across the state to participate in its inaugural program. That includes Langford Park Hockey, St. Anthony Park’s neighborhood youth hockey organization.

“I was surprised and honored to have our scrappy little youth hockey association be selected” said Laura Mays, president of Langford Park Hockey. “The Langford Park Hockey Association has its own mission to keep hockey both affordable and focused on fun.

“While the teams are competitive and skilled, the overall vibe of the Langford Park Hockey association may feel more laid-back and relaxed than what you hear about neighboring large-scale hockey teams.

“As a part of the ‘Skate It Forward’ program, Langford Park Hockey is now offering free registration to first time players under age 8,” Mays said.

While hockey gear can be expensive, Mays noted the association passes down well-loved equipment to new players each year. “We often outfit kids almost entirely with used gear we already have,” she added.

This season is a great time to get your kid on the ice in the great state of hockey! Register now at langfordparkhockey.com/register. 

Scott Carlson is managing editor of the Bugle.

Photo credit: Langford Park hockey players (in blue uniforms) face off in a hockey game. Photo by Joe Hensel.