HIP - Learn to Skate
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.
This learn-to-skate program focuses on improving skating ability and other basic hockey skills focusing on USA Hockey's development model.
Ages
Typically between 4 to 10 years old but there are always exceptions.
When
Sessions are on Mondays during the hockey season from 6:20-7:00 PM.
Additional Friday 6:00-6:45 PM sessions are also available.
HIP 2026-27 Schedule
10/03 Try Hockey For Free (get a FREE USA Hockey Number)
10/05 First night of HIP!
10/12, 10/19, 10/26
11/02, 11/09, 11/16, 11/23
NO HIP 11/30
12/07, 12/14, 12/21
NO HIP 12/28
1/4, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25
2/01 2/08, 2/15, 2/22
3/01
Gear Rental
We have a large collection of skates and gear available to use for free.
Full Set Gear rental is available for a fee and deposit
Where
HIP sessions are always at the Manitowoc County Ice Center
Transitions
Players who want to skate for an additional night are welcome to join our Friday night sessions when they are available. Friday night HIP is typically at 6:00 - 6:45 PM
If a player shows progress, and parents and coaches agree, it is possible to move from our HIP program to the 6U/8U Mites program. Mites is actually a perfectly acceptable starting point for any player, and we encourage players to move up to mites when they feel ready. What is mite hockey?
Registration Steps for HIP
Step 1
Setup a Crossbar account and Add your child as a participant
STEP 4
Attend HIP on Monday nights at 6:00 PM! Learn more about the program while your child gets to know the basics!
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, gloves and other items that are available to use. Skaters just trying skating can wear snow pants and winter gloves at first instead of hockey equipment.
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!
2026-2027
Registration for the Hockey Initiation Program is intended for children who have little or no skating or hockey experience. The first night is free. Additional sessions are $5 or can be bundled together for discounts. Sign up at any time throughout the season!
HIP 2026-27
10/03 Try Hockey For Free
10/05, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26
11/02, 11/09, 11/16, 11/23
NO HIP 11/30
12/07, 12/14, 12/21
NO HIP 12/28
1/4, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25
2/01 2/08, 2/15, 2/22
3/01
Register