2010-2011 Initiation Program
We have designed the Initiation Program ("IP") to provide beginners, ages 4 to 10, with the opportunity to learn and practice the fundamentals of individual and team hockey in a fun environment. We've structured our program towards boys and girls with some skating ability as a learn-to-play hockey program. Advanced skating skills are not required. However, we encourage each player to have some basic skating ability or have completed some type of introductory skating instruction (e.g., Snowplow Sam through the Fairfax County Parks Authority). Skating fundamentals are critical for this age group; we continuously emphasize such fundamentals throughout the season. This is a great introductory program for youth who would like to try hockey!
We hold sessions on Sundays from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm for ten (10) weeks at the Mt. Vernon Recreation Center starting September of each year. Typically, three 10-week sessions are conducted each year, running from September to May. Our last session this year concluded on May 16th.
We have modified the Initiation program session content from previous years. For skaters with more experience, our session runs from 5:30 to 7:00 pm (the full 90 minutes). For those new skaters, or skaters with a bit less experience, we have split the 90 minute ice period into 2-45 minute periods; each young skater will get 45 minutes of skating time. Those sessions run from 5:30 to 6:15 pm and from 6:15 to 7:00 pm. The cost for full ice time (90 min) is $150 per 10-week session; 45 minute session fees are set at $100.
IP Session #1 for the 2010-2011 season is scheduled as follows (Mt Vernon Rink starting
at 5:30pm (1st-45 min period and 90 min period) and 6:15pm (2nd 45-min period):
Sep 12, 19, 26
Oct 3, 10, 17, 24
Nov 7, 14, 21
If you would like any additional information, please send an email to Initiation2010@nova-icedogs.com
Do we play games? Yes. Each Sunday session typically consists of drills and cross-ice games.
Where can I get equipment? The Kettler Capitals Iceplex in Ballston, the Reston SkateQuest in Reston, the Capitol Clubhouse in Waldorf, MD, the Prince William Ice Center in Dale City, and the Fairfax Ice Arena in Fairfax are all good local shops with knowledgeable sales people. There are also a variety of online suppliers. However, we recommend strongly that you ask for assistance to ensure you are purchasing equipment that fits your child properly.
Should I buy New or Used equipment? Hockey equipment can be expensive, but when considering whether to purchase new equipment consider two issues: the right fit and sanitation. Hockey protective equipment needs to fit properly in order to protect the player. Helmets need to especially fit just right, so we recommend purchase of a new helmet for each player. Also, given the potentiality of staph and other type skin infections, new equipment has a very low risk of infection. However, used equipment should be acceptable if the equipment is cleaned well and sanitized. On the first day of initiation sessions, we will check all equipment on all our players for fit and function.
Do we get jerseys? Yes, players will receive a hockey jersey as part of the sign-up fee.
What kind of skates should I get for my player? A player's hockey skates must fit properly in order to minimize injury, blisters, and other problems. As such, we do not recommend the "buy it a little big so that they will grow into it" strategy, as it could well lead to problems. Especially for this age group, fit is critically important to supporting the development of proper technique. Again, used skates can work, but ensure that they are sharpened before use. The above skate shops have knowledgeable sales staff to assist you. .
What equipment does my player need? To ensure the safest playing environment possible for NVHC participants, skating members shall not participate in on-ice activities without all of the necessary and properly approved Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC)-approved ice hockey equipment:
Can I volunteer? Absolutely! The IP program is staffed by USA Hockey-certified coaches, but parent volunteers for both on and off ice needs are always welcome and encouraged. A volunteer needs only energy and enthusiasm, along with skates, and a helmet (mandatory). One should never shy away from volunteering, regardless of your skill level. It is a great time and it allows you to participate in helping the kids in our community develop. Please discuss your interest in volunteering with the coaching staff.
Thank you for your interest
in Northern Virginia Hockey, and welcome to the Ice Dog family! Any
questions, please contact us:
NVHC Initiation Program Head Coach:
John Rader Initiation2010@nova-icedogs.com (USAHockey level 4 certified)