learn-to-play program

learn-to-play program

Our Learn-to-Play hockey program is designed for beginner players who want to improve their hockey skills in a fun, engaging environment. Our team of professional coaches aims to inspire the next generation of hockey players through game-based learning, skill development, and a fun experience that leaves every player with a smile on their face. Our program is built to incorporate progressive age-appropriate development with engaging activities and drills to create the optimal environment for kids to improve, have fun, and fall in love with the game!

Features 
At TOP Hockey, we are proud to offer professional coaching with a low player-to-coach ratio at all sessions. Our coaches are highly trained, passionate professionals who are dedicated to providing top-notch technical training and engaging sessions to help players advance their hockey journey. 

Session Overview
In each skill development session, players in our program will receive structured on-ice training from professional coaches. During the session, players rotate in small groups through three stations: Game-Based Development, Skating Stations, and Small Area Games. This progression from technical instruction to constraint-based games to gameplay helps participants learn and master the fundamental skills of hockey faster, while also helping to foster a love for the sport. Our programs are designed to align with the latest recommendations of Hockey Canada’s Long-Term Athletic Development Model.

Programming Note: This is not a Learn-to-Skate program. Participants MUST be able to stand up and move around the ice on their own without help to stand up from coaches. All ice sessions include a 10-minute window for the Zamboni, icetimes are typically 50-minutes. 

WINTER SEASON - 2024

Saturday Program
Ages: 2018-2020 birthyears
Day/Time: Saturdays 8:00am-9:00am
Location: Gairdner Arena (Appleby College)
Dates: October 26 to March 1

Sunday Program
Ages: 2018-2020 birthyears
Day/Time: Sundays 5:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Gairdner Arena (Appleby College)
Dates: October 27 - March 2

winter 2024 programs

saturday mornings

Day/Time: Saturdays 8:00am-9:00am
Location: Gairdner Arena (Appleby College)
Dates: October 26 to March 1
Outdates: Two per season (TBC)
Ages: 2018-2020 birthyears
Cost: $450 + HST

sunday afternoons

Day/Time: Sundays 5:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Gairdner Arena (Appleby College)
Dates: October 27 - March 2
Outdates: Two per season (TBC)
Ages: 2018-2020 birthyears
Cost: $450 + HST

frequently asked questions

    • Hockey stick (cut & taped)

    • Hockey helmet w/ cage

    • Neckguard (mandatory)

    • Skates

    • Gloves

    • Shoulder pads

    • Elbow pads

    • Hockey Pants

    • Hockey Shinpads

    • Jock/Jill

    • Jersey (provided)

    • Hockey Socks

  • We encourage players to sign up with friends, and every effort will be made to place friends in the same group for the majority of the sessions. Only ONE friend request per player will be accomodated.

  • We strongly encourage all players to use the bathroom before arriving at a program to minimize disruptions, but bathrooms are generally available at all arenas.

  • No, unfortunately parents must remain at the rink for the entire duration of the session. Our coaches are NOT permitted to take children to the bathroom at any time. Parents must remain at the rink to accompany their children to and from the bathroom.

OUR CORE VALUES

#1 - Multi-Sport Development
We believe that multi-sport play, over time, is essential to creating a well-rounded and successful athlete.

#2 - Seasonal Set Schedules
Our programs feature an efficient, set schedule for the whole season, providing ultimate predictability and allowing you to plan around your sports’ commitments.

#3 - Quality Coaches Who Care
Our professional coaches take pride in building relationships with players and pushing them to reach their full potential, in sport and beyond.

#4 - Character Building Through Sport
We use sports as a vehicle to teach essential life skills like discipline, teamwork, respect, work ethic, & accountability.