Nelson Center · Springfield, IL
Learn to Play Hockey is the ideal next step for young athletes ready to transition their skating skills into the exciting game of hockey. This program introduces the fundamentals of the sport in a fun, supportive, and safety-focused environment. Participants build confidence while developing essential skills such as balance and edge control, puck handling, passing, shooting, and on-ice awareness through age-appropriate instruction and engaging drills. The Learn to Play program is divided into two levels: Learn to Play 1: Participants will focus on foundational skill development, including crossovers, stopping, power turns in both directions, passing, backward skating, shooting, and learning how to safely get up from their knees. Learn to Play 2: This level emphasizes increased speed, improved positioning, and advanced skating and stickhandling skills, including maintaining control with heads up. Both levels are led by experienced coaches who guide participants step-by-step, helping them develop coordination, teamwork, and a passion for the game. The program emphasizes fun, sportsmanship, and steady skill progression to prepare players for future league play. Prerequisite: All participants must successfully complete Skating for Hockey or Basic 1 prior to enrolling in Learn to Play Hockey 1. Participants must pass Learn to Play 1 before enrolling in Learn to Play 2. This ensures each player has the foundational skating skills necessary for safety and success on the ice. Need Ice Hockey Equipment? Thanks to Gonzo’s Legacy: The Zack Defreitas Project, participants who register for Learn to Play Hockey are eligible to receive FREE ice hockey equipment. For more information, please contact: Michael Lemke – Mlemke@springfieldparks
