Tompkins Girls Hockey Association (TGHA) announces its plans for the 2009-10 season. TGHA offers ice hockey activities for area girls ages 4-19 including Initiation, House, and Recreation programs, and three girls travel teams (19U, 14U and 12U Ithaca Shooting Stars teams). For more information, contact TGHA0910@yahoo.com or call 539-6920 or visit www.ithacagirlshockey.com .

Two free and fun events at The RINK, 1767 E. Shore Drive, in October will welcome beginners and other newcomers to TGHA as well as give continuing Initiation and House players a chance to get back on the ice. Registration materials are available at both events, too.

Try Girls Hockey on Monday, October 19 is geared to brand new skaters and hockey players who will participate at the Initiation level. It begins at 6:30 p.m. with an introduction to hockey equipment and a chance to borrow some to wear when the on ice activities begin at 7:00 p.m. TGHA coaches and older players will help newcomers to “try hockey” in a fun and safe way.

The annual TGHA Open House is set for Monday, October 26 at 6:00 p.m.. Girls of all ages and levels come together for this event which is a kickoff for the season. This includes newcomers and continuing members. Coaches are introduced and key leaders welcome the TGHA community for the new season.

Hockey equipment is not necessary on October 26 since Open House is more like a open skating session than a hockey practice with sticks and pucks. Helmets are worn by some with their street clothes, gloves or mittens are recommended, too. Music, refreshments, door prizes are features of Open House as well as the opportunity to register for the season.