Frequently Asked Questions
Street Hockey
Do I wear skates to play street hockey?
- Street hockey is played in sneakers, not skates, with a ball, not a puck. It is played in street rinks, basketball courts, tennis courts, or asphalt.
What kind of equipment do I need for street hockey?
- Street hockey requires less gear than ice hockey. Generally, all players need a jersey, a stick, and any additional safety equipment (helmets, gloves, mouthguards, etc.) is optional.
Is the game structure similar to ice hockey?
- The structure in street hockey consists of two 15-minute halves, unlike three periods in ice hockey.
Ice Hockey
At what age can my child start skating and playing ice hockey?
- Children can start as young as three or four, depending on their development. Youth hockey generally begins for players at age six.
My child wants to play hockey. Where do I start?
- First, it is recommended that your child takes some form of beginner’s skating class. Once they have a basic grasp of skating, they should join the Learn to Play (LTP) hockey program and try out camps and clinics. After graduating from LTP, participants are encouraged to join a team!
Does my child need to know how to skate before they sign up for the Learn to Play (LTP) hockey program?
- It is recommended for a child who has no prior ice skating experience to enroll in a “learn to skate” program, but it is not required.
Who is eligible to register for the Learn to Play (LTP) hockey program?
- The program is offered to new, first-time participants (boys and girls). First-time participants are those who have not previously been registered with USA Hockey, a sanctioned youth hockey program.
What is the next step after the Learn to Play (LTP) hockey program?
- You will be provided with an overview of next step/transition programs prior to graduating from the Learn to Play program.
We are ready to invest in hockey. What gear should I purchase?
- Skates
- Helmet with facemask
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Pants
- Shin pads (aka hockey knee pads)
- Gloves
- Hockey Socks
- Jersey
- Hockey Stick
- Mouthguard (optional)