Students at Bierbaum Elementary School are quickly becoming hockey fans thanks to a generous equipment donation by the St. Louis Blues.

The Blues gave the school four hockey goals, four sets of goalie pads, 36 hockey sticks and a box of balls so the kids can play “street hockey: during their physical education classes. The Blues also sent members of their youth outreach program to Bierbaum Elementary.

“We come and teach basic hockey skills and have a great time with these kids,” Blues employee Jamel McCaine stated in a news release. “We try to develop their passion for hockey and teach them the basics. It’s a great way to get the heart pumping and the blood flowing.”

Bierbaum physical education teacher Chad Lemley says he is thrilled to have the donated hockey equipment.

“I like to offer different activities in our physical education classes, so hockey is a great addition to what we normally do,” Lemley explained. “I think this is awesome. A lot of my students are new to the game of hockey so it’s a brand new experience. Hockey skills are a great way to improve balance and coordination, as well as a way to encourage teamwork.”

This outreach program is called the Street Blues Initiative, and it is offered to elementary and middle schools in the community.

Physical education teachers also receive special training about hockey as part of the Street Blues Initiative.