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 Hockey Canada, 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. Learn to Play changes the way youth hockey is offered by providing first time participants, between 4-9 years of age, head-to-toe equipment, age-appropriate instruction and certified coaching, led by NHL Alumni, in a fun and safe atmosphere. This program is for first-timers only. If you have previously participated in Little Blackhawks or if you already play on a team, you cannot enroll for this program.

If you are interested in registering for a session, it is highly recommended a Learn to Skate program is completed before starting Little Blackhawks. You may register for one at your local rink, or at your Little Blackhawks host location.

The Little Blackhawks program includes 6-8 weeks of lessons at a local ice rink and a full set of hockey equipment! Weekly sessions are run by ice rink staff and local coaches.

Questions? Contact [email protected].