A Summer of Skates and Smiles
A three‑day ice hockey camp held at Lancerlot Sports Center in Vinton drew roughly 60 children from across the Roanoke Valley, offering a first‑time taste of the sport for many and a chance for seasoned youngsters to sharpen their game.
The camp was organized by Jaimie and Brock McGinn, former professional players who leveraged their connections to bring a unique learning environment to the community. Their focus stretched beyond skill drills to include strength training and, perhaps most importantly, fostering a genuine love for hockey.
Guiding the on‑ice sessions was Coach Dan Bremner, who reminded the kids that enjoyment is the cornerstone of development. “If they’re having fun, the improvement follows,” he said, emphasizing the camp’s philosophy of balancing hard work with play.
Participants got the rare opportunity to skate alongside former NHL athletes, gaining insights that go beyond technique. Bremner also hinted at other summer programs hosted by the former Roanoke Railyard Dawgs, expanding the pipeline of local hockey experiences.
Beyond the rink, the camp highlighted the role of community organizations like the Vinton Youth Hockey Association, whose website, vyha.org, continues to support youth sports in the region. The blend of mentorship, physical conditioning, and camaraderie left a lasting impression on the young athletes.