RANKIN INLET - While the community of Rankin Inlet continues to be plagued by ice woes, its new minor hockey executive is gearing up for another busy year of puck action.

Ken Beardsall was named president of the Rankin Inlet Minor Hockey Association (RIMHA) this past week.

Beardsall knows he has big skates to fill in taking over from long-time hockey leader Justin Merritt, who stepped down at the conclusion of the 2008-09 hockey season.

The new president said going forward into the 2009-10 season, the RIMHA board looks like a strong one.

"We have good support in place and people with different types of skills who want to contribute," said Beardsall.

"We had solid volunteer support for our first bingo, which was successful.

"Last year, our registration numbers were around 100 kids in minor hockey and we've already hit 80 this year.

"So, things are going smoothly and I'm optimistic about the season ahead."

Beardsall said he's encouraged by the fact RIMHA is receiving support from the parents of kids at all different levels of hockey.

He said having that diversity should provide solid communication for Rankin's minor hockey program.

"We're hope to have another coach's meeting this week, but it looks like we have solid people in place at every level, with the exception of initiation.

"We need someone to take over that program, but, other than that, every level is well represented."

Beardsall said so far, the problems with the arena's ice plant haven't caused RIMHA too many headaches. He said the silver lining to the delay is the board having a little extra time to get things going.

"Having artificial ice, and starting our seasons a little earlier than most of the other communities, has been a bit of an advantage for Rankin teams the past few years.

"Because of the earlier start, our kids were better prepared for the annual tournaments in Rankin and across the Kivalliq.

"That advantage may be somewhat diminished this year. And, of course, the kids are getting impatient and asking when the ice will be ready every day."

Beardsall said as disappointing as the delay has been, Rankin hockey lovers should remember most of the other communities have to wait a lot longer to start playing.

He said the delay hasn't slowed RIMHA's registration drive and, hopefully, it won't be long before the kids are on the ice.

"Once news gets out the arena is about to open, I'm sure the remaining parents will put a push on to register their kids.

"Our early bird offer of a cheaper registration was slated to end on Oct. 26, but we may extend that a little because the ice hasn't been ready."