Nearly 150 locations across the United States will help celebrate the fourth annual International Ice Hockey Federation World Girls' Ice Hockey Weekend this Saturdayand Sunday (Oct. 11-12). As part of the festivities, past and present members of the U.S. Women's National Team will take part in select events across the nation.

The IIHF World Girls' Ice Hockey Weekend is an opportunity to celebrate female participation in the sport. The goal of the event is to grow the game through a variety of events that aim to introduce beginners to basic skills in a positive, fun and safe environment; provide more opportunities to play ice hockey; teach fair play, sportsmanship and teamwork; create new friendships; and develop a lifelong love of the sport.

"USA Hockey is proud to be a leader in the continued advancement of girls' and women's hockey," said Dave Ogrean, executive director of USA Hockey. "It's terrific to see all the activity happening around the country this weekend and we're most grateful to all the volunteers who are dedicated to helping grow the game."

Events being hosted include youth hockey clinics featuring the American Development Model, hockey jamborees, Try Hockey for Free opportunities, female-only tournaments, introductory informational sessions about the sport and other hockey-themed gatherings.

Those taking part in the festivities this weekend are encouraged to share their experiences by posting photos and stories on USA Hockey's Facebook page and on Twitter using the hashtag #girlshockey.

Thirty-four states are hosting activities as part of the fourth annual IIHF World Girls' Ice Hockey Weekend. For more information on the IIHF World Girls' Ice Hockey Weekend, click here.

NOTES: Teams from the NHL, AHL, NCAA, and USHL are among those helping celebrate the IIHF World Girls' Ice Hockey Weekend ... Participation in girls and women's hockey in the United States has increased by nearly 25% in the past decade and now has more than 67,000 registered players.