COVID-19 restrictions have made it impossible for the female hockey program of Cochrane Minor Hockey to hold their extremely popular Esso Fun/Come Try Hockey Days.

While missing two springs worth of recruitment has not been ideal, female hockey director Lorne Bremner says he's there to help any families interested in their girls trying the sport.

Bremner says he's available to answer any questions. You can contact him at femaledirector@cochraneminorhockey.com to arrange a call.

He says if they want to give it a try first, ice time has been booked for the girls for when restrictions are eased.

Additionally, there is clean equipment is available for girls 8 and under to borrow for those not 100 per cent certain if the sport is a fit.

"If somebody's having second thoughts or money is an issue, we can help out with equipment," says Bremner.

The female hockey program has grown in leaps and bounds in Cochrane, and part of that success is attributed to the fun try hockey days.

"It was huge, and it was gaining even momentum, so it's sad that we've missed two years in a row."

Before COVID has an impact, 190 girls registered for the program last season. It dropped slightly to 176 afterward.

Bremner says they're striving to get the same numbers. He says if they reach 200, they'll be able to ice two teams in each division.

Registration opens June 1 for players returning to any minor hockey program. It opens for those new to the association on June 16 at 9 a.m.

He says the minor hockey association is planning for a regular season, with the hope conditions return to almost normal in the fall.

Cochrane Minor Hockey once again has a deferred payment system in place. Initially, a non-refundable $50 deposit will be required, followed by four installments, the final falling on Oct. 1.

Bremner says there are programs for those struggling financially, and that information is available at the minor hockey office.

You can find minor hockey registration details here.