ROCKPORT — The Midcoast Recreation Center in Rockport partnered with the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League to provide the Bruins Academy Learn to Play Hockey Program and had their first of four practice sessions on-ice Friday, Oct. 7. 

During the event, former Boston Bruins player Rick Middleton joined the local coaches on the ice to support, teach and play with the 22 kids signed up for the program.

“We’ve had a great relationship with the Boston Bruins over the years with everything from sending our 8U kids down to play games during game intermissions at the Boston Garden to having hosted Bruins Academy for a number of years,” said Jesse Simko, arena and program director at MRC.

Middleton brought a great attitude and was willing to help out all the kids from the ones just learning to stand up to kids who were already cruising around, a news release stated.

He stayed afterwards and was more than happy to sign pucks and take pictures with members of the Midcoast hockey community. 

MRC is excited to kick off the season with a strong start and if anyone is interested in starting hockey there is plenty of time. Learn to Play Hockey sessions run on a monthly basis and equipment is provided.

Please sign up early for the next month so you can have a spot reserved. Cost for entry programs are kept low and anyone who needs financial assistance can apply online at midcoastrec.org or at the front desk.