Learn to Skate 2009-10

Welcome all Learn to Skate Players and Parents!

We have designed our Learn to Skate program to teach younger children the very basic fundamentals of the game of hockey. This includes skating, balance, agility, handling of the puck, shooting, passing, and the basic positional play. Most of all, the program provides positive reinforcement and an enjoyable experience for all the children and parents.

The program begins on October 17 ^th and ends on March 27^th with 20 skating sessions.  The cost is $98 for the season.   A decrease of $77 from last year's fees!

Sessions will be held at Smead Arena (Blunt Park) on Saturday afternoons from 1:00 pm to 1:50pm.  

Equipment
Equipment is a critical part of any game. Helmets with full cages and ear protection are mandatory along with hockey gloves. However, we also recommend players wear full hockey equipment at all times on the ice (shin pads, elbow pads, and hockey pants). Please be sure that the equipment fits properly. Players will need a hockey stick. The stick length should be up to the players’ chin when the stick is held vertically by the player while standing on skates, up to the nose when not on skates. If the stick is longer please cut it to the proper length. Also make sure you buy a left or right curved stick depending on your child’s’ preference – the players’ dominant hand usually holds the top of the stick.

Skates must be sized properly; this is the most important piece of equipment to every player, it is the foundation for your child’s’ success and improvement. If their skates are too small they will be difficult to get on and painful to wear. If they are too big the skater will have difficulty with balance. Typically skates fit 1-2 sizes smaller than shoes, so if your child takes size 3 sneakers his skate size is probably going to be a 1 or 2. Skates should be kept sharp. Skaters should always walk on padded mats, never on concrete or hard floors without skate guards.

Local athletic shops and sports equipment retailers will have beginners’ packages consisting of skates, hockey gloves, and helmet with cage.

The WTM organization is looking forward to meeting you and wishes you and your children an enjoyable and rewarding season. If you have any questions, please contact our Learn To Skate Coordinator, Jim McLaughlin, at 565-5777 or WTM President, Tim Walsh, at 596-8742.

Questions? Email our Learn
to Skate Coordinator,
Jim McLaughlin.