Volunteer of the Month - September 2008

When Mary Jane's son started playing as a Mite for Mid-Fairfield Youth Hockey, she jumped right in as a volunteer. Years later, Mary Jane recounts the ways she has impacted not only her son, but other players and parents through her commitment as a hockey volunteer.

What hockey program do you volunteer with?
Mid Fairfield Youth Hockey Association

Do you have any kids that play in the program?
My son, Tommy, is playing Bantam Major as a goalie.

Why did you originally become a hockey volunteer? Tommy started as a Mite C with Mid Fairfield and Coach Backman knew I would manage for him.

What is your current role as a volunteer? I am currently the Secretary for MFYHA. I record Board Meeting minutes and coordinate activities for our team managers and other volunteers. I try to help wherever it is most needed.

How long have you been a volunteer? This is my eighth season as a volunteer with Mid Fairfield.

Why have you continued to volunteer over time? I believe everyone that has an opinion on how an organization is run has a responsibility to contribute to its operation, or they have no right to voice an opinion regarding policies and procedures.

What capacities have you served as a hockey volunteer over time? I have served as a Team Manager for five years. I have served on the Board as Secretary. Over time, I have served on various committees for specific functions and issues.

What are your goals as a volunteer? My primary goal is to teach my son that it is imperative for each and every participant in a program to give back to that program as much as they possibly can. I hope to have passed along to him a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Why do you like being a volunteer? I still get a thrill when a child points to me and says to their parent - there's the hockey lady.

How can hockey volunteers work to encourage good sportsmanship from parents, coaches, players and administrators? Volunteers for youth hockey need to instill and show respect to everyone. Many times, it just requires taking a deep breath before speaking and remembering perspective. Always remember that it's just a game.

What is the most extreme thing you have done as a volunteer? I managed a team that had a player who had diabetes. The player had to test prior to going on the ice and would sometimes just shut down about it- it was too much - so we tested together. It only happened once, but it was very important to me to know I helped that child.

What is your most memorable moment being a hockey volunteer? This past weekend at our Opening Day, my fourteen year old son spent the day lifting boxes, toting chairs and reffing Mite and Squirt 3 on 3 games- no questions asked - except for some hot cocoa requests. It proves that leading by example works.