GENERAL INFORMATION
The Watertown Youth Hockey Learn to Skate program is for boys and girls who would like to learn the fundamentals of ice skating. The program is run by the professional instructors of the Warrior Hockey Group. It is designed to develop strong basic skating skills (balance, stride, edges and stopping) as an introductory program for children interested in ice hockey. The 40 min per week lessons are ideal for children 4 years of age and up. Parents of children under 4 that are interested in the program are encouraged to contact Watertown Youth Hockey to discuss the eligibility of their child.
No previous skating experience is necessary.
During class, children will be divided according to ability. These groups will develop various skills as they work their way through the curriculum. As skills are mastered the children will move up to a more advanced group. The Learn to Skate program is an introductory program that will give children the skills necessary to move forward through the Watertown Youth Hockey system, eventually transitioning to Learn to Play and ultimately into the Travel hockey program.
Skaters will participate in a 40-minute lesson each Sunday starting at 11:40 a.m., 12:20 p.m., or 1:00 p.m. Once a start time is selected, skaters may not change their designated lesson time without permission from the Sharper Edge instructors and Watertown Youth Hockey.
SCHEDULE AND DETAILS FOR 2022-2023 SEASON
WHEN: The 16-Week Learn to Skate Program meets on 16 Sundays beginning in November and ending in early March.
Session Dates: Nov 13th thru March 19th (No sessions on 11/27, 12/25 or 1/1). Second 8-week session begins Jan 29th.
(Dates subject to change due to weather closures or other reasons.)
WHERE: John A. Ryan Arena, 1 Paramount Place, Watertown
USA HOCKEY REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED for insurance purposes. There is a small fee for USA Hockey registration based on age.
HOW TO DRESS: It is easier to control your child's body temperature if you dress him/her in layers. Have your child wear loose comfortable clothing so that body movement will not be restricted. Snow pants are recommended to keep the skater from getting wet when he/she falls. Waterproof gloves or mittens are best so that their hands stay warm and dry.
HELMETS: All skaters must wear a helmet at all times while on the ice. For the safety of your child, an ICE HOCKEY HELMET (with a cage) is highly recommended.
SKATES: You must supply your own skates. Skates must be sharp and must fit for the current season. “Double-runner” skates (2 blades each) are prohibited.
