ABOUT

Learning to play hockey is more than just learning a game. More than skating, passing and stick-handling, hockey is about responsibility, respect and teamwork. As children learn the skills needed to succeed on the ice, they also build and solidify important character traits needed to succeed off the ice. With that in mind, the Learn to Play initiative was developed jointly by the National Hockey League and the NHL Players’ Association to offer more families a chance to experience everything that makes youth hockey so rewarding.

Developed with the help of experts from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada, the Learn to Play initiative aims to be the gold standard for youth hockey programs with the goal of inspiring more families to join the hockey community. Learn to Play changes the way youth hockey is offered by providing first time participants, between 4-12 years of age, free head-to-toe equipment, age appropriate instruction and certified coaching, led by NHL Alumni, in a fun and safe atmosphere.

WHAT'S INCLUDED
Free head-to-toe equipment
Each participant will receive the following new equipment to call their own, customized by your local NHL team:

• Ice Hockey Helmet with a cage

• Shoulder pads

• Elbow pads

• Hockey gloves

• Hockey pants

• Shin guards

• Skates

• Jersey

• Socks

• Stick

• Equipment bag

In addition to the equipment provided, we recommend that you purchase a mouth guard and athletic supporter.

Upon completion of the Learn to Play program, participants will be able to keep the equipment.

6-8 Weeks of On-Ice Instructions
In addition to the free head-to-toe equipment, participants in the Learn to Play program will also receive 6-8 weeks of age-appropriate instruction in a safe and fun environment. Learn to Play on-ice instruction plans have been developed in collaboration with experts from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada and taught by certified instructors and led by NHL Alumni.

FEES
The program provides FREE head-to-toe equipment for your child to keep as they continue exploring youth hockey. However, there is a participation fee associated with the program which offsets ice and coaching expenses. The participation fee is $199 for 2020 spring sessions.