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Duluth is home to one of North America's last all-outdoor youth hockey leagues. 

The city has seven independent youth hockey organizations that play at their own volunteer-run neighborhood rinks. One big advantage is that outdoor hockey — when parents maintain the rinks and the city pays for water and lights — is largely free.  

The disadvantage is that when it gets too cold, too warm or too snowy, the rinks shut down. 

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Derek Montgomery

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Duluth has seven independent youth hockey organizations that play at their own volunteer-run neighborhood rinks. One big advantage is that outdoor hockey -- when parents maintain the rinks and the city pays for water and lights -- is largely free.

Derek Montgomery for MPR News

Mike Johnson warms up his grandson's hands.

Snow falls and kids slide across the ice.

Each youth association got Bayfront rink time.

Coach Matt Mathias is followed by mighty mites.

John Carlson and Matt Zappa flood the rink.

Laurie Zappa holds Doc while watching her son.

Parents and coaches help kids learn to skate.

Outdoor rinks are cheap, but subject to weather.

Photos: In Duluth, youth league hockey is an outdoor-only sport

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