Dear RAHA players and families,

  On the eve of the beginning of the Vermont State Amateur Hockey Association state playdowns and the upcoming Bobcat Jamboree I would like to wish all teams the best as they enter tournament play. I am very proud of what we have been able to accomplish since late September. The players have been working hard to learn and develop many different aspects of the game over the last several months. Coaches and volunteers have given endless hours both on and off the ice to help players develop their game, sense of self and individual goals they had for the season.  Parents have been instrumental in getting their player(s) to practices and trucking them all over Vermont for these types of opportunities. Everyone’s efforts are much appreciated and we, as an organization, are ready to represent RAHA in the best and most positive of light.

  Tournament play is what makes this game great. There is a lot of excitement and energy in every arena. Teams from all over the state will compete for a chance to play for something larger than themselves in their respective age groups and divisions. It is always great to see the stands filled with proud parents, siblings, grandparents and extended family cheer for their player and their team regardless of what sweater the team is wearing. In that regard we share a collective experience as we all want to see our players, teams and organization reach their hopes and goals.

  So… get yourself decked out in your green/black/white Spartan gear and thoroughly enjoy what we will all be part of over the next couple of weeks. Regardless of any outcomes please give your player and team the encouragement they have earned. There are only a few times in the kids lives and our own as parents that we will get the opportunity to really get the full experience of these tournaments and remember these moments fondly in the future.

  Please drive carefully wherever you are going for your tournament, cheer on your team and make this a positive experience for the players and yourselves.  Best wishes and luck to every team and we are all proud of what you have been able to accomplish this season.

  GO SPARTANS!!!!!!

Brian Olsen

President, Rutland Amateur Hockey Association