With $40,000 in hand, organizers who have picked up the puck and skated with it along St. Michael-Albertville’s sudden campaign to become the next Hockeyville, USA are loving the moment.
“It’s incredible,” said STMA Youth Hockey Association president Josh Opioloa. “With all of this support, we deserve it. The people here love hockey, and it’s continuing to grow. But we’re just so proud of everything that’s happened so far.”
To recap, about seven people sent e-mails to Kraft in a contest to be named the next Hockeyville, USA. Sure, other communities are more steeped in hockey history, even here in Minnesota, but STMA was chosen for its passion and dedication – quickly becoming the largest association in the State of Hockey with just one sheet of ice.
Kraft recognized that commitment, and put STMA into the Top 10, utilizing Kathy Lester’s letter.
Twin Cities channel KSTP caught up with Kathy for her story, right here.
Now, the voting for the semifinals – or the Western Finals – pits STMA vs. Decatur, Ill. That’s a community three times the size of this one.
Nonetheless, the “State of Hockey” believes it will win. Organizers of a community rally have reached out to the Minnesota Wild, USA Hockey and more.
WCCO caught up with fans yesterday a pep rally:
Fans have until 11 p.m. Wednesday night into the Hockeyville, USA finals, which would pit STMA against eight Jonesville, Penn. or Sault St. Marie, Mich. next week. More information can be found at VoteSTMA.com.