Mobile ball hockey program brings the sport to Cape Fear kids

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A new mobile sports program is bringing ball hockey directly to children across the Cape Fear, including some getting their first opportunity to try the sport.

The Wilmington Arena Project announced the launch of its Mobile Ball Hockey Arena Activation Program, an initiative designed to bring ball hockey to schools, nonprofits and community organizations throughout the region.

The program has already held its first two events at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington and GLOW Academy.

According to the Wilmington Arena Project, nearly 100 children participated in the two events, many of whom had never played ball hockey before.

“The best part was seeing kids arrive a little skeptical, only to leave having had an amazing time, with big smiles on their faces,” Wilmington Arena Project founder Michael Völlmin said.

The program is led by head coach Angelo Terrana, who also coaches the U.S. women’s national ball hockey team.

Organizers say the mobile program will also visit public schools and provide the experience to students at no cost. Sponsorships from Novant Health, EmergeOrtho, the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina and other community partners are helping cover the cost of the program.

“This program is about meeting kids where they are and showing them a sport, and a community that believes in them,” Völlmin said.

Beyond introducing children to ball hockey, the Wilmington Arena Project says the initiative is also intended to build community support for its larger effort to develop a multipurpose arena in the Wilmington area.

Organizers hope the program will lead to letters of support from participating schools and community organizations as they work to advance plans for a proposed 10,000-seat arena.

The Wilmington Arena Project launched in 2024. Organizers envision the proposed facility as a regional venue for sports, concerts and community events.