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Safety is top of mind for hockey parents as the August neckguard requirement approaches
“They’re kids playing a sport that they love, but they don’t understand how seriously they can get hurt,” Burt said. “That’s the bottom line.”
ST PAUL, Minn. — Thousands are headed to St. Paul for the MSHSL Boys Hockey Tournament this week, and along with the action on the ice, players can get a look at new equipment next door.
“Looking at all the new things that are out there, so, yeah, love it,” Connie Larson, a hockey mom, said.
The Let’s Play Hockey Expo at the RiverCentre features all sorts of new equipment for players to try – including one that will be required for some soon.
“I think it’s important just for my safety and other people’s safety,” Connie’s son Cy said. “Honestly, when I’m playing, I really don’t even know it’s there.”
Ahead of the curve, Cy has been wearing a neck guard for a few years now. Starting August 1, USA Hockey will require all of their members under 18 – including on-ice officials – to wear the guards.
This includes both practices and games.
“The whole issue with having to wear these neckguards, I don’t think is really a surprise to anybody,” Connie said.
It’s a push for safety as on-ice tragedies continue to happen. It hits home for parents like Rachael Burt.
“So when the young lad, Teddy, passed away in Connecticut,” Burt said, tearing up. “It’s very, it’s pretty serious.”
Burt runs Hockey Moms Pro Shop and sells neckguards. She says her own child isn’t allowed on the ice until they have one on.
“They’re kids playing a sport that they love, but they don’t understand how seriously they can get hurt,” Burt said. “That’s the bottom line.”
Burt is one of many trying to help. Scott Brown owns HC Apparel, selling their own neckguards.
“That’s what every parent should do, is protect their child,” Brown said. “Not overprotect, but protect their child.”
It’s a reminder the Larsons are sharing as August gets closer.
“One more layer, piece of puzzle, piece of equipment,” Connie said.
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The suspect was 17 at the time of the shooting, but he was charged as an adult.
A St. Paul man has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, more than two years after a drive-by shooting left a 17-year-old dead.
Casimir Semlak, of St. Paul, was charged with shooting 17-year-old Anthony Skelley in May 2022 during an apparent drug deal in South St. Paul. Police say a search of Skelley’s cell phone uncovered that the last number he was in communication with was linked to the suspect.
Semlak was also 17 at the time but was charged in the adult court system.
Following his death, family members told KARE 11 in a statement that Skelley was a junior attending St. Paul Public Schools’ Gateway to College program, and had “a beautiful soul with a cheerful presence and a joyful spirit.”
Semlak will be sentenced in January 2025.
The Moorhead Police Department said Paige Reinke was last seen Sunday wearing a blue sweatshirt and gray sweatpants.
MOORHEAD, Minn. — Officials are asking for the public’s help locating a 17-year-old Moorhead girl that is believed to be endangered.
According to the Moorhead Police Department, Paige Reinke was last seen Sunday near the 2600 block of River Drive North wearing a blue sweatshirt and gray sweatpants. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) describes her as 5-foot-4, 155 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Moorhead Police Department at 701-451-7660.
“The Power of a Transformed Woman” is Twyla Martin’s raw, unapologetic story about strength, transformation and rising above trauma.
ST PAUL, Minn. — A Minnesota author and motivational speaker has written a new book and is holding a panel discussion.
“The Power of a Transformed Woman” is Twyla Martin’s raw, unapologetic story about strength, transformation, and rising above trauma.
On Friday, Nov. 1, Martin will speak with a panel at CSPS Hall in St. Paul about her book release.
- Twyla Martin – Author
- Nekima Levy Armstrong – Civil rights attorney, activities, and community organizer
- Chantel Sings – Powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and performer
- Ashley DuBose – Singer, songwriter
- Jamela Pettiford – Vocalist and actress
- Lissa Jones – Speaker, advocate for African American history and culture
- Robin Hickman-Winfield – Producer, filmmaker, and CEO of SoulTouch Productions
- Alana Carrington – Creative professional with expertise in the arts, education, and community development
What happens to Trump’s criminal cases if he wins the election? Experts weigh in.
Threat actors likely to take advantage of election fraud claims to fuel violence, bulletin warns
Republicans turn to Supreme Court in dispute over Pennsylvania provisional ballots
What happens to Trump’s criminal cases if he wins the election? Experts weigh in.
Threat actors likely to take advantage of election fraud claims to fuel violence, bulletin warns