Learn to Play Hockey
Ages 4+ | Beginner‑Friendly | Fun First
Welcome to the easiest on‑ramp to hockey in Midcoast Maine! Our Learn‑to‑Play Hockey program takes brand‑new skaters from first wobbly stride to confident puck‑handler—always with high‑fives and smiles.
Quick Facts
- Who: Boys & girls age 4+ (must turn 4 by Dec 31 of the current season)
- When: Three 8‑week sessions with one hour on‑ice each weekend, typically Sunday mornings at 8 AM (schedule updated regularly in SportsEngine App)
- Where: Bowdoin College's Watson Arena (Brunswick) + select dates at The Colisée or Underhill Arena at Bates College (Lewiston)
- Cost: Low flat fee with scholarships & gear‑swap support available
New to skating? No problem. Chairs and on‑ice helpers keep day‑one nerves away; our goal is to be chair‑free by mid‑session.
Program Goals
- Build Confidence – small wins every skate
- Master Fundamentals – balance, edges, stops & starts
- Spark Joy – games > lines; laughter > lectures
- Grow Community – teammates today, friends for life
We follow USA Hockey’s American Development Model (ADM): station‑based drills, lots of touches, zero standing around.
How to Register
- Get a USA Hockey number » USA Hockey Registration (Required for insurance)
- Sign up for LTPH through the MCYH registration portal—enter your USA Hockey number to start the process.
- Watch your inbox for season‑start details, roster info, and volunteer sign‑ups.
Ready for more than once‑a‑week skate time? Ask about transitioning to our House 6U/8U or our 10U/12U Growth and Development Team programs once your player can skate, stop, and follow simple drills.
Equipment Essentials
Full protective gear keeps new skaters safe—and confident:
| Must‑Have Gear | Tips |
|---|---|
| HECC‑certified helmet w/ full cage | Check expiration sticker when buying used |
| Neck guard & mouth guard | MCYH requires both for all divisions |
| Shoulder & elbow pads | Allow full arm extension |
| Gloves | Fingers snug, can wiggle |
| Hockey pants & shin pads | Belt or suspenders keep pants up; tape over socks holds shins |
| Groin protection | For boys and girls |
| Hockey skates | Fit snug; sharpen every 5–10 hours |
| Hockey stick (optional at first) | Stick should reach the bridge of the nose in shoes |
What to Expect at the Rink
- Arrival: Check in 30 min prior on day one; 15 min thereafter. Dress at home when you can. Our locker rooms fill fast; arrive rink‑ready except for skates, helmet, and gloves.
- Parent role: Stay in the stands—our coaches will call you if your player needs a break.
- On‑ice format: warm‑up ➜ rotating skill stations ➜ fun game or cross‑ice scrimmage.
Tip: Pack a labeled water bottle & easy‑off gloves—little hands heat up quickly.
Volunteer & Coaching Opportunities
Our culture thrives on parent power! If you can skate (or want to learn), we’ll guide you through USA Hockey coaching certification and pair you with a mentoring coach. Off‑ice helpers (bench doors, jersey laundry, snack table) are just as valuable.
Still Have Questions?
- Equipment questions? Visit our Gear Guide or swing by the next gear‑swap.
- Scholarship info? Check our Financial Aid & Scholarships page
- General inquiries? Email our VP of Player Development. We’re here to help!
See you at the rink—let’s make those first strides unforgettable!
