Getting your child involved in sports is a fantastic way to foster their physical and personal development. If you’re looking for a dynamic and engaging activity, look no further than hockey! The Columbus Blue Jackets Learn To Play program, presented by Performance Columbus, offers an unparalleled introduction to this exciting sport for children aged 4 to 10. In association with Moo-Moo Express Car Wash and Kroger, this program is designed to make learning to play hockey easy, convenient, and incredibly rewarding.
More than just a game, hockey teaches valuable life lessons. Beyond the skating, passing, and stickhandling skills, children learn about responsibility, respect, and the importance of teamwork. These are character traits that extend far beyond the ice rink, setting them up for success in all aspects of life. Led by Blue Jackets Alum Andrew Cassels and certified coaches, the Learn to Play program provides age-appropriate instruction in a fun, safe, and supportive atmosphere.
Why Choose Blue Jackets Learn to Play?
This introductory program is thoughtfully structured in three steps to guide your child from beginner to confident young hockey player. It’s open to both boys and girls aged 4 to 10*, and for first-time Hockey 1 enrollees, an incredible bonus awaits: head-to-toe hockey equipment worth $600 is included! (Link/instructions for equipment ordering are provided in your registration confirmation email).
The family-friendly schedule features convenient eight-week sessions, each class lasting 45 minutes. These sessions are held year-round at various OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rink locations, making it easy to find a time and place that suits your family. For just $200 per eight-week session, your child will receive expert coaching and a fantastic introduction to hockey. Plus, with each registration, you’ll receive one complimentary ticket to a 2023-2024 regular season Blue Jackets home game!
Step-by-Step Hockey Education
The Learn to Play program is carefully structured to build skills progressively:
Step One: Hockey 1 – Intro to Hockey Skating
This is where the journey begins! Hockey 1 is designed for children with little to no prior skating experience. The focus is on building confidence on the ice while learning the fundamental skills of skating.
- Perfect for boys and girls aged 4-10 with minimal or no skating experience.
- New skaters receive head-to-toe equipment to keep!
- Key skills taught: balance, forward skating, backward skating, and stopping.
Enroll now for Hockey 1 – March 2025: March 17 – May 10 (8-week session).
Step Two: Hockey 2 – Advanced Hockey Skating
Building upon the foundations learned in Hockey 1, Hockey 2 focuses on advanced hockey skating techniques. Skaters will enhance their proficiency and agility on the ice. (Prerequisite: Learn to Play Hockey 1. Instructors will provide a registration link when your skater is ready to advance.)
- Develop skating confidence and refine agility.
- Skills emphasized: hockey stance, stride, knee bend, edge work, and introductory skating with stick and puck.
March 2025 Session: March 17 – May 10 (8-week session)
Step Three: Hockey 3 – Hockey Skill Development
Once your child has mastered the fundamentals of skating, Hockey 3 introduces them to the exciting game of hockey itself! This step challenges players and further develops their skills in preparation for organized hockey. (Prerequisite: Learn to Play Hockey 2. Instructors will provide a registration link when your skater is ready to progress.)
- Introduction to the rules and gameplay of hockey.
- Skill-based stations and small area games to enhance learning.
- Skills emphasized: game rules, stick and puck handling, and advanced skating skills required for gameplay.
March 2025 Session: March 17 – May 10 (8-week session)
Upcoming Session Dates:
- January 2025: January 6 – March 1 (8-week session)
- March 2025: March 17 – May 10 (8-week session)
- June 2025: May 26 – July 19 (8-week session)
- August 2025: August 4 – September 27 (8-week session)
- October 2025: October 13 – December 13 (8-week session)
Looking for adult or older youth classes (ages 11-17)? Click here for details and registration >
Have questions? Please contact us >
*Please note: Children currently or previously enrolled in organized hockey programs are not eligible for this introductory program. Participants may repeat the program but will only receive free equipment with their first-time Hockey 1 enrollment.
Ready to help your child discover the joys of hockey? Enroll in the Blue Jackets Learn to Play program today and watch them thrive both on and off the ice!
