It's been a good year so far for Swift Current Minor Hockey's Novice division.

     It's among the areas seeing an increase in numbers, with an increase of 20 kids this year.  That's good enough for six boys' and one girls' team.

     Division Head Wade Lacher says the teams are busy preparing for a home tournament in February, which will be increasing from 10 to 12 teams.

     Lacher adds that volunteers have continued to step up and fill holes in a number of areas, including the coaching ranks.