HIP - Learn to Play
What is HIP?
The Hockey Initiation Program (HIP) is geared towards children with little or no skating experience, typically between the ages 4 to 10. New skaters may start HIP at any point during the season. No need to wait for the start of the next session! HIP is happening every Monday from October to March at Manitowoc County Ice Rink!
This learn-to-skate program focuses on improving skating ability and other basic hockey skills focusing on USA Hockey's development model. Participants will learn balance, agility, edge work, forward skating (glide and stride), backward skating, and stopping. They will also learn basic puck handling, passing and shooting. Cross ice scrimmages are added as the season progresses. The goal at this level is to teach fundamental hockey skills for a successful transition into one of the Mite programs.
Ages
Typically between 4 to 10 years old but there are always exceptions.
When
HIP is run in four 5-week sessions. The first session is free, $20 for additional sessions.
Sessions are on Mondays during the hockey season from 6:00-7:00PM.
Where
HIP sessions are always at the Manitowoc County Ice Center
Transitions
If a player shows significant progress, and parents and coaches agree, it is possible to move from our HIP program to the 6U/8U Mites program. What is mite hockey?
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment should my child wear?
Helmet & Gloves are required along with skates. Skate rentals are included as part of the registration if needed. We have a supply of hockey helmets that can be borrowed but a well fitting bike helmet will work. Thicker winter or hockey gloves are the recommended gloves to wear. In addition to that, snow pants and jackets will help due to falling down and other games on the ice to provide some padding.
Opening Night: October 7th!
Session 1
14, 21, 28 & November 4, 11
Session 2
November 18, 25 & December 2, 9, 16
Session 3
December 30 & January 6, 13, 20, 27
Session 4
February 3, 10, 17, 24 & March 3
WHY HOCKEY?
Because hockey is the greatest sport in the world for making friends and learning how to be a good teammate. Because in this game everybody plays and keeps moving, taking turns on the ice practically every minute. Because hockey builds stronger bodies and team spirit that grows among the players and families alike.
Participating in hockey programs instills lessons and positive traits to last a lifetime. Hockey builds character. It encourages decision-making skills and quick thinking on your feet, the value of hard work, plus how to handle both wins and losses. Coaches teach a mindset of teamwork that relies on trust, responsibility, fair play and, most of all, joy.
Because Hockey is Fun!
2024-25
Registration for the Hockey Initiation Program is intended for children who have no skating or hockey experience. The first session is free. Following sessions are $20.
Register