It’s one of the most common questions parents have when their child shows an interest in hockey:
“Do they need to know how to skate first?”
If they’re coming to Try Hockey Free, the answer is no.
Try Hockey Free is designed to give kids ages 4–9 a fun, pressure-free introduction to hockey, even if they’ve never skated before. It’s a chance to step onto the ice, experience the excitement of the game, and find out whether hockey might be something they’d like to pursue.
But if they decide they want to keep going, learning to skate is the next important step.
Hockey Starts with Skating
Skating is the foundation of hockey.
Before players can confidently chase a puck, pass to a teammate, shoot, or play in a game, they need to learn how to move on the ice.
Balance, forward movement, stopping, turning, and edge control all help young players become more comfortable and confident on their skates.
That’s why Skating Edge offers a progression designed to help new players build those skills before moving into the game.
So What Is Try Hockey Free?
Think of Try Hockey Free as an introduction.
Kids don’t need to arrive knowing how to skate or play hockey. Our experienced coaches and volunteers will help them get comfortable on the ice and introduce them to some of the basics in a supportive environment.
The goal isn’t to teach your child everything they need to know about hockey in one session.
It’s to let them experience it.
Did they have fun? Do they want to get back on the ice? Are they excited to learn more?
If the answer is yes, we can help with what comes next.
The Next Step: Learn to Skate for Hockey
Once a child decides they’d like to pursue hockey, the next step is Learn to Skate for Hockey.
These classes focus on the skating skills young players need to eventually play the game with greater confidence and control.
As players progress, they’ll build the foundation needed to continue along the Skating Edge hockey pathway and begin developing more hockey-specific skills.
There’s no need to rush.
Learning to skate well gives young players a stronger foundation for everything that comes next.
What Do We Need for Try Hockey Free?
We’ve made that first experience as easy as possible for families. Rental skates and basic hockey equipment will be available while supplies last.
Every participant must bring their own helmet. A properly fitted bike helmet is fine.
Most importantly, bring a child who’s ready to have some fun and try something new!
Give Hockey a Try
If your child watches hockey and wants to know what it feels like to get on the ice, Try Hockey Free is a great place to begin.
They don’t need to know how to skate yet.
They don’t need to know the rules.
They don’t need to own hockey equipment.
They just need the opportunity to try.
Try Hockey Free
November 7 | 2:10–3:10 PM
Ages 4–9
Registration is required and spots are limited.
And if they leave the ice wanting more, we’ll be ready to help them take the next step with Learn to Skate for Hockey.
