Raise Your Game: What is your role?

Brent Pope: I'm the general manager with the Cardiff Devils. I'm involved with all matters pertaining to the team. The Learn to Play programme is something we've brought into our organisation to introduce people to the sport of ice hockey in South Wales.

Raise Your Game: How do you get young people involved in the Learn to Play programme?

Brent Pope: It's mostly through word of mouth. People really enjoy it, they have fun. There's also information on our website and at the arena. We go into schools on a weekly basis, speak to young people and encourage them to come down. A lot of youngsters come to our matches, like what they see and come along.

RYG: How much does it cost to take up ice hockey?

BP: This particular session costs £10 but that includes renting the helmet, the skates and protective gear. That way you make sure that you're safe on the ice. It's not a cheap sport, but it's a unique sport. Not only does it have very skilful elements, it's got speed, it's got power, it's got a physical side as well, which people enjoy. It's a multi-faceted sport and it appeals to lots of people. When they come, they tend to enjoy it and want to come back.

RYG: Do the professional players coach the sessions every week?

BP: Yes. It's a part of what we have to do here in Cardiff. One of the special points of Cardiff over the years has been the relationship between the players and the supporters. You want guys that want to be here. Everybody feels good about giving something back, and that's why the guys want to be here.

RYG: How fit do you have to be to take part?

BP: You don't have to be very fit at all. My father, who's 65, got on the ice tonight. He hasn't been on the ice in 25 years. It's open to anybody and anyone, of any age, of any ability. It doesn't matter if you're male or female, it's wide open. We just want to encourage people and to invite them along, and to let them have a taster. There's nothing like testing yourself.

RYG: What are the benefits for youngsters wanting to take up this sport?

BP: First of all it gives you an active lifestyle. Getting involved with sport is always a great way to get used to team participation. Being in this environment teaches you a little bit about competition, about fair play, about the ethics of sport. It's really about participation - trying something new and different. It gives you a lot of social interaction. Give it a try and see if you like it. People come here from all walks of life and sport is a great vehicle for including people.