NYTEX Learn to Play Program
Learn to Play is a program that provides a unique opportunity for families to join the hockey community and for participants to develop fundamental skills to help them succeed both on and off the ice. Created jointly by the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the National Hockey League (NHL). Learn to Play’s goal is to inspire youth and welcome more families into the hockey community.
The value of learning to play hockey goes beyond skating and puck-handling skills. Its’ greatest value is the role it plays in the development of character and life skills such as RESPONSIBILITY, RESPECT, INTEGRITY, PERSEVERANCE and TEAMWORK. Learn to Play is the start of a new experience, extending further than the ice. It’s about falling down and getting up, making new friends from teammates and most of all creating fun memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Whether you’re playing, watching or supporting, hockey cultivates community. The Learn to Play Program aims to foster that community by providing unique experiences and exclusive access to NHL clubs and Alumni. By connecting the next generation of hockey stars with current hockey stars, Learn to Play provides families an exciting experience as they take their first step in their hockey journey.
NYTEX Learn to Play Hockey – Session #2 (Inaugural Program)
Starts December 20th
Runs Saturdays | 9:45am – 10:45am
December 20th – January 4th
Join us for the inaugural session of our brand-new Learn to Play Hockey program at NYTEX Sports Centre! This 6-week program is the perfect next step for young skaters ready to move from Learn to Skate into the exciting world of hockey.
🗓 Program Details:
Session Dates: December 20, 21, 27, 28 and January 3, & 4.
Day & Time: Saturdays, 9:45am – 10:45am
Location: NYTEX Sports Centre
Duration: 6 consecutive session (2 a week)
Designed for new players, this program introduces the fundamentals of hockey in a structured, supportive environment. Full gear is required. Participants should have basic skating ability (completion of Learn to Skate Hockey 1 or equivalent recommended).
Come be a part of this exciting first season and take your first strides into hockey!
Frequently asked questions
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER FOR THE LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY PROGRAM?
The program is offered to new, first-time participants (boys and girls) between the ages of 5 and 12. First-time participants are those participants who have not previously been registered to a USA Hockey or Hockey Canada sanctioned minor hockey program.
DOES MY CHILD NEED TO KNOW HOW TO SKATE BEFORE THEY SIGN UP FOR THE LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY PROGRAM?
It is recommended for a child who has no prior ice skating experience to enroll in a “learn to skate” program, but not required. Most rinks also have regular ice skating sessions which are open to the public and a great way to gain experience and confidence on the ice.
HOW MUCH DO THE LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY SESSIONS COST?
The fee for the Learn to Play Hockey program is $199, however, the program provides head-to-toe equipment for FREE.
WHAT DO THESE COSTS INCLUDE/COVER?
You will be provided with an overview of next step/transition programs after our last on-ice sessions, prior to graduating from the Learn to Play program. Additional information will be available for families at the LTP Graduation Event.
WHAT EQUIPMENT IS INCLUDED/REQUIRED FOR THE LEARN TO PLAY PROGRAM?
Upon being accepted into the Learn to Play program, each participant will receive head-to-toe equipment. The equipment package includes; a helmet with cage, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey pants, shin guards, hockey skates, a hockey stick, jersey, socks and an equipment bag. We also recommend a mouth guard and athletic supporter for all participants. All equipment is required to be worn during each on-ice session. Participants may keep the equipment upon graduating from the Learn to Play program.
DO I HAVE TO RETURN THE EQUIPMENT WHEN THE PROGRAM IS OVER?
CAN I REGISTER MY CHILD FOR MULTIPLE YEARS?
Unfortunately not. The LTP program is offered to only new, first-time participants.
WHAT IS USA HOCKEY (USAH) / HOCKEY CANADA (HC)?
The National Governing Bodies for youth hockey in the United States and Canada, respectively.
DOES THE NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY MEMBERSHIP EXPIRE?
Yes, the membership is valid for the current youth hockey season. Upon enrolling in your next hockey program beyond the current playing season, standard fees will apply
WHY DOES MY CHILD HAVE TO BE REGISTERED WITH THE NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY?
The Governing Body provides a number of resources for the Learn to Play program, including; age-appropriate training modules and practice plans, coaching certification, background screening and insurance for all Learn to Play participants.
WHAT IS THE GOVERNING BODY FEE FOR THE LEARN TO PLAY PROGRAM?
Registration with the Governing Bodies is included for the Learn to Play program. Should you elect to enroll in a future hockey program upon graduating from the Learn to Play Program, standard Governing Body fees will apply.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE AT THE ARENA?
You should arrive a minimum of 60 minutes prior to start time for your first on-ice session to provide enough time for your child to check-in and get dressed before taking to the ice.
I WANT TO REGISTER MY CHILD FOR THE LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY PROGRAM, BUT IT IS SOLD OUT, IS THERE A WAITING LIST?
Yes. In the event that the session that you are attempting to register for is sold out, you will automatically be added to a waiting list and contacted should a spot become available.
SESSION FROM THE WAITING LIST?
If you have been moved off the waiting list and have been placed into a Learn to Play Hockey session, you will be contacted via email by a Stars representative.
WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP AFTER THE LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY PROGRAM?
You will be provided with an overview of next step/transition programs after our last on-ice sessions, prior to graduating from the Learn to Play program. Additional information will be available for families at the LTP Graduation Event.