Learning to play hockey is more than just learning a game. More than skating, passing and stick-handling, hockey is about responsibility, respect and teamwork. As children learn the skills needed to succeed on the ice, they also build and solidify important character traits needed to succeed off the ice. With that in mind, the Learn to Play initiative was developed jointly by the National Hockey League and the NHL Players' Association to offer more families a chance to experience everything that makes youth hockey so rewarding.
Developed with the help of experts from USA Hockey and MAHA, the Learn to Play initiative aims to be the gold standard for youth hockey programs with the goal of inspiring more families to join the hockey community.
Click on any of the locations below to register:
PETOSKEY ICE ARENA - 3450 M-119, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
DEARBORN ICE SKATING CTR - 14900 Ford Rd., Dearborn, MI 48126
ESH ICE ARENA - 4831 Canyon St., Detroit, MI 48236
BIRMINGHAM ICE ARENA - 2300 East Lincoln St., Birmingham, MI 48009
FARMINGTON HILLS ICE ARENA - 35500 Eight Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48335
BIG BOY ICE ARENA - 34400 Utica Rd., Fraser, MI 48026
TROY SPORTS CENTER - 1819 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48083
Head-to-toe equipment for registered participants will be provided. Each participant will receive the following new equipment to call their own, customized by your local NHL team: helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey pants, shin guards, skates, equipment bag, stick and a Little Wings jersey (not all equipment is shown).
We recommend that you purchase a mouth guard and athletic supporter. Upon completion of the Learn to Play program, participants will be able to keep the equipment.
In addition to the equipment, participants in the Learn to Play program will also receive 6-8 weeks of age-appropriate instruction in a safe and fun environment. Learn to Play on-ice instruction plans have been developed in collaboration with experts from USA Hockey and taught by certified instructors.
To be considered as a partner rink for the Little Wings Program, please complete the interest form by clicking the button below.