YOU GO, GIRL! Last year, the Menomonie Youth Hockey Association saw a record number of young girls participating in youth hockey. And as the new year welcomes a new sports facility to the Chippewa Valley area, girls have more opportunities to get involved and compete. (Photo by Siri Benrud)

Competitive sports are back for the spring in the Chippewa Valley – with a snazzy new facility too!</strong> With customized coaching, the Valley Sports Academy in Lake Hallie offers athletes of all ages the opportunity to register for hockey and soccer tryouts, with registration open now.Hockey players of all levels are eligible to try out in March for the Spring AAA hockey teams. Each age group has multiple teams catered to different skill levels, allowing everyone an opportunity to hone in their hockey skills. Players receive 12 hours of team practice with VSA and guardian coaches included with two additional hours of VSA off-ice team training. Alongside three tournaments, players’ uniforms are included. Tryout fees are $30- per tryout, increasing to $5 in January, February, and March. Overall team fees are $725 per player upon formation. VSA competitive soccer tryouts are open for co-ed age groups 12U and 14U, and a boys-only age group 19U. The season runs from March through July, when players can expect 30+ hours of practice time and five tournament opportunities. The season ends with a Target Cup that includes teams from across the state and country. For more information and registration details, visit valleysports.academy, or email chase.hoople@valleysports.academy.