VSAHA is engaging in a partnership with the Ladd Foundation to help enhance the youth hockey experience for our kids, coaches and families.  All 12U and 14U teams are expected to engage in the 1616.org program. 

1616.org Flyer

Why are we doing this? - The VSAHA board took action after surveying associations in 2023.  There was a call for more mental wellness for our kids, coaches and families.  After reviewing a few different options, we believed the Ladd Foundation offered the best options in their 1616.org program.  Their 10 week curriculum is accessible to coaches, players and families.  

Where can I find out more about 1616.org?  They have recently updated their website.  Take some time to explore what they have to offer.  Want to know how the program works, check out this site - https://1616.org/how-it-works/

When does the season start for 1616?  The season begins on October 12th.  

What if my team hasn't started by then?  That is perfectly fine.  The material will be available to your team when your season starts. 

Why do we need to add this requirement to our coaches and teams? All 12U and 14U teams are required to engage in the 1616 program during the entire 10 week span.  This program is offering some best practices and tools that will help build stronger communities and enhance the relationships among our teams and families.  The mental wellness of kids and adults are important for any success on or off the ice.  We want to develop our kids into strong and productive members of our communities and believe this is an opportunity to address the needs associations have identified they wanted us to support.  We are hopeful that the expected 20 minutes a week for 10 weeks will have a positive impact on your team.

Next Steps:

1. Share - Share the attachment and this email with your coaches or team managers at the 12U and 14U age groups.   
2. Join our User Group - Submit head coaches email and name to join the VSAHA 1616 Google Group (VSAHA Herd).  This group will be our main mode of communication during the season for our Vermont herd.  The entire VSAHA executive board will be engaging in the weekly content as well.  VSAHA Herd Form
3. Sign Up - CLICK HERE to register your team for the 2025 season of 1616.  A qr code is available on the attachment.  
4. Engage your team in a weekly conversation about the material starting on October 12th or later.