FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What are the objectives of the Learn to Skate Program (LTS)?

Our goal is simple:  To introduce children to skating and the game of hockey by teaching them fundamental skills in a fun environment.  We do this by teaching them proper balance, forward skating, turning and stopping over the cours of six (6) sessions. You'll be amazed how quickly they learn these skills.

• What equipment will my child need?

The cost of the LTS Program with the equipment package, includes skates, a hockey helmet with face mask, hockey gloves, and a stick.  Upon registration (or via email) you will be notified when to bring your child in for an equipment fitting.  Other than the equipment we furnish, we do recommend purchasing shin pads and elbow pads.

• How often will my child skate?

The LTS and the Instructional Clinic meet twice weekly, usually Saturday and Sunday mornings for a period of about one hour each session.

• Will my child be in a group with children his/her own age?

Yes.  We try to keep the children in the same age grouping.  The first session is usually the 4 through 6 year olds and the second group consists of children 7 years and older.

• How early should I get to the rink before the LTS session?

We recommend that you arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled ice time.  You may wish to arrive even earlier to allow your child to adjust to the surroundings and to allow ample time to put on equipment.

• Am I allowed on the ice during the LTS session?

No.  Because of insurance regulations, and to ensure the effectiveness of the session for all children, parents and other family members are not allowed on the ice, unless they are coaches certified by CHC and approved by the league.  We will have league representatives at the rink for all sessions to answer your questions and provide assistance.  These representatives will have "GNH WARRIORS STAFF" credentials.

• Can I watch my child from the benches used for hockey players?

No.  Once again, insurance regulations and rink rules prohibit persons other than coaches, players, or league officials from being in the player bench area.  This includes the penalty box and scorer's box.  It is recommended that you watch your child from the bleachers.

• What if my child is crying or upset while on the ice?

Young children sometimes will become upset during a LTS session.  This is sometimes due to the unfamiliar nature of the rink, not to mention the initial difficulty in standing up on the ice!  We ask that you remain patient.  Our coaches are experienced in handling this frustration and will help your child overcome it.  Again, please see the GNH Warriors off ice staff assigned to the rink, who will provide assistance as needed.

• The LTS Program is six sessions, where does my child go from here?

The Greater New Haven Warriors has available an Instructional Clinic Program which will continue the instructional process begun in the LTS Program.  The clinic continues for 21 weeks, two hours per week for a total of approximately 42 hours, at an additional cost and further refines fundamental skills, including skating, stick handling, shooting and passing and related skills.

• When does the Instructional Clinic start?

The Instructional Clinic will begin the weekend immediately following the conclusion of the Learn to Skate Program.

• How can I register my child for the Instructional Clinic?

League Representatives will be there the last weekend of LTS offering registration for this continuing program.  You can sign up at our table in the rink lobby, register online via our website, or see any GNH Staff member for more information.

• Can I register at any time?

You can register at any time (including via our on-line registraion process) as long as we still have availability.  Space is provided on a first-come, first serve basis.

• Can I register today?

We appreciate and recommend that you register as soon as possible to avoid congestion of everyone registering at the last minute.  Again you may see any GNH staff member or utilize or on-line registration once it is open for this program.

• Does Greater New Haven Youth Hockey have a web site?

Yes.  Our web site is www.gnhwarriors.org.  Please note that we do all of our communication via our web site and email.  Be sure to check the website often and during registration be sure to provide an accurate email address that is checked often.

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING GREATER NEW HAVEN YOUTH HOCKEY!