On Feb. 14 from 5-7:15 p.m., the Durango Betties, Durango’s adult women’s hockey team, will face off against the Durango Area Youth Hockey Association (DAYHA) girls U19 team in a Valentine’s Day Showdown. The game will be played to raise funds to grow the girls’ youth program and to celebrate the Betties’ 20th anniversary.
Team sports, like hockey, provide more than just physical activity. They teach resilience, teamwork, confidence, and leadership – skills that extend far beyond the rink and into every aspect of life.
“The girls program has a lot of potential to grow within the Durango community.” said Alex Kleman, girls U19 head coach, and DAYHA Board President. “Currently, we have a tough time fielding the appropriate age-level teams because the numbers are too low. We would love to see/promote girls hockey at a younger age from “try hockey for free” events to younger girls teams and have the experience continue as they get older. Having a girls team at a young age that can grow together would be extremely valuable.”
The funds raised will go directly to the girls’ hockey program, ensuring that more young girls in Durango have the chance to play, learn, and thrive. Money will be raised through ticket, concession, and merchandise sales. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities are appreciated. Attendance and donations will support:
Scholarships: So financial barriers never keep a girl from playing the sport she loves.
Equipment and gear: Ensuring every girl has the tools to succeed.
Community-building programs: Creating a network of support, mentorship and lifelong friendships.
When a girl is empowered through sport, she’s empowered for life. Girls who play team sports are more likely to graduate and pursue higher education, more confident in leadership roles and professional settings and more resilient in facing life’s challenges.
About the Durango Betties:
The Durango Betties are Durango’s first adult women’s hockey team, established in 2005. After 20 years of breaking barriers and building community, the Durango Betties look forward to what the next 20 years can hold.
“Over the years, our friendship has grown into a sisterhood, creating a connection that’s difficult to put into words,” Ashleigh Tucker, Betties captain and local business owner, said. “Off the ice, we lead diverse lives with different careers and daily routines. But on the ice, we come together as Betties. Our culture is built on mutual support, both in the game and in life. Whether we’re celebrating victories or navigating challenges, we do it together. We laugh, cry, and play hard, always showing up for one another.
“For us, hockey is more than a sport – it's the glue that holds our family together. We’re a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and shared passion. 90% culture … 10% skill.”
About the Girls U19 Team:
The Girls U19 team represents the best of Durango’s young female hockey talent. The team is part of a broader effort to build a strong foundation for girls hockey in the region.
“Girls hockey is a community that builds lifelong friendships, – Indie Eaton, DHS sophomore and class president, said. “It’s important to foster girls hockey to empower young women. It’s gaining popularity across the country so it’s important to grow the program for future generations.”
More Info: Link to the event.
Donate at durangohockey.org/donate and use the comment “girls”.
For more information on the event, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, please contact Gisele Cazaudumec, girls U19 assistant coach at admin@durangohockey.org.