Harmony through Hockey is a program dedicated to creating a youth urban hockey league for the purpose of cultivating the sport of hockey. The program is patterned after a similar, highly successful program that began in the city of Philadelphia. Harmony through Hockey strives to bring culturally diverse American communities together by promoting racial harmony through team building and athletic competition. We recruit children 6-12 years of age, from different cultural backgrounds to teach them the life skill of teamwork and respect both on and off the ice. Harmony through Hockey allows each participant to bond with others of a different social, economic and racial heritage.

Frank Meeink, founder of Harmony through Hockey, now lives in the Des Moines area and knows that the program can be highly successful with the cooperative help of the Iowa Chops and the business community. Frank Meeink is a professional speaker who travels around the country lecturing on such topics as race, race relations and the respect of others and self.

Off Ice Segment
One of the most important aspects of the program occurs off the ice – before and after games as well as practices. This is an opportunity for coaches to communicate with the local youth about current events and social issues. Harmony through Hockey will also bring the youth and their families together for Iowa Chops games and other outside events such as civic service activities (i.e. Riverwalk cleanup) along with an Awards Ceremony. Civic service and a positive attitude will allow participants the opportunity to earn their equipment privileges.

On Ice Segment
Harmony through Hockey participants will have access to Wells Fargo Arena ice for practices and games. Whenever possible, Iowa Chops' coaches and players will serve as coaches and role models, teaching the game of hockey as well as life skills.

Hockey is a great teacher of “teamwork” because it utilizes six different players – the goalie, the defensemen, and the forwards. An assist on a goal is just as important as scoring the goal itself.

When a team member is dressed in hockey equipment from head to toe, his or her skin color is not seen. Everyone in the same color jersey presents a unified front and allows teammates to work together for a common goal. Then, it’s time to have FUN!

Rules

1. No hitting or checking
   
2. Always be a supportive teammate (help one another)
   
3. Show respect – on and off the ice
   
4. Have a positive attitude
   
5. School Attendance and Grades - Participants must maintain a “C” average and have no more than 4 absences per grading period