Staff Writer
HOULTON – Two young skaters are taking their hockey skills to a higher level.
Abby Kinens and Rachel Harmon, both of Houlton, participated in the Maine Festival tryouts in January at the University of Southern Maine. Both competitors were hoping for a chance at playing on the Maine Select teams in their respective age divisions.
Competing at this level is familiar to Kinens and is a good gauge for her skills.
“This is my third year making a Maine Select team,” she said. “Rhode Island will be a great experience for me. I love the competition and the best girl players in New England will be there. It will be a good opportunity to see how I measure up to the best.”
Kinens was among 50 other players in her 13/14-year-old division, who participated in a 90-minute tryout.
Rachel Harmon, left, and Abby Kinens
Coaches were assessing each player’s skills through 45 minutes of drills, along with another 45 minutes of scrimmage, with one-minute shift changes. After the workout, seven forwards, five defensemen and a goalie were chosen to represent Maine at the New England Festival.
During the Festival, only the 14-year-old skaters will be evaluated, with the better skaters being asked to attend an additional development camp in New York.
As a bonus, the girls making the Maine all-star squad are invited to attend the USA Development Camp at St. Anslem’s College in Manchester, N.H. from July 5-10.
Harmon’s tryout was much like Kinens’, as she also traveled to USM for the 11/12-year-old division, working for a spot on the team against 40 other skaters during the 90-minute workout.
Those evaluating the players looked for teamwork and passing, as well.
“I’m excited about my first chance to participate at this elite level of hockey,” said Harmon. “I’m looking forward to my trip, but also meeting new teammates.”
Harmon will be playing on a team with nine forwards, six defensemen and two goalies at the Under 12 New England Showcase on April 11-13 at Cromwell, Conn.
Coaches rated both girl’s divisions on skating ability, playing of their positions, hockey teamwork and their unselfishness.
The extra benefit for Harmon is Kinens’ tips about the Festival process, and drawing upon Kinens’ experience.
