Learn To Play

The primary goal of our Learn to Play Hockey program is to create an environment that engenders confidence and an interest in hockey. Led by professional instructors, all of the drills and games are designed to generate as much fun as possible while teaching core hockey skills and techniques. Participants skate twice per week (once on Saturday and once on Sunday) from mid-November to early March.

Special thanks to Village Bank, which has been a sponsor of our Learn to Play program for many years.

Is my child ready for Learn to Play?

Skaters should have knowledge of the basics of skating, be completely independent, and capable of freely maneuvering around the ice. Backwards skating and hockey stops are not necessary. 

If your child has done skating lessons (or has been on the ice regularly) they likely have the basic skills needed to participate in this program.

What equipment do I need?

All skaters must wear a hockey helmet with mask (no ski or bike helmets). 

All skaters must wear a full set of hockey equipment: neck guard, elbow pads, shoulder pads, athletic supporter (hockey cup), hockey pants, shin guards, hockey skates, and hockey gloves. 

Hockey sticks are required. The top of the hockey stick should be between the nose and chin when the child is standing up WITH the skates on. If the hockey stick is too big or too small, the drills/games will hinder the child's skills development.

We do not advise wearing equipment big enough “to grow into”—proper fitting equipment will ensure your child’s safety, comfort, and ease of movement.

For details and other helpful tips, please check out USA Hockey's guide for new hockey parents.

Are parents welcome on the ice?

We are always looking for capable volunteers to help out with our Learn to Play program. Please reach out to Joseph Haggerty, VP of Intramurals, to learn more about volunteer opportunities and requirements.

Do we need to attend every session?

We understand that hockey is just one component of your family schedule. While we encourage players to attend as many sessions as they can, please don’t feel guilty about missing events due to other obligations. Players across all of our age groups have other interests and routinely miss occasional practices and games – remember, this is supposed to be fun, not work!