Learning To Skate can be done anywhere, in the driveway with inline skates or at the local pond in the winter months. However, CWIHC looks to find and offer clinics and opportunities to learn the sport of ice hockey at local area facilities.
CWIHC recommends starting out by participating in any type of starter program to prepare new skaters to take the ice. Local Learn To Skate programs are designed to teach beginner hockey players the fundamentals of skating. Every session of Learn To Skate will have different needs; access to ice, age variations and number of skaters. It’s important for these players to become comfortable on the ice.
Important information: Children must be potty-trained to be considered for Learn To Skate. Helmets (bicycle, ski or ice hockey) are required for skaters. Loose fitting, warm clothes and gloves are recommended.
Skates: The skates are the most important piece of gear. Make sure the skates fit right. The wrong fit will cause players frustration if too big and pain if too small.
To Properly Fit Skates:
1. Remove the insole from the skate and have the player stand on it. Make sure the heel is properly aligned with the heel of the insole. The big toe should almost reach the front edge of the insole. There should not be more than a 1/4 inch of insole showing.
OR
2. Loosen the laces of the skate and insert foot pushing toes up against the toe bed. No more than one finger should fit between the player’s heel and the heel of the skate.
There are a number of options available. Check our Facebook page for session times throughout the year. For information on how to get started and when sessions are available please contact us.
