2008-2009 Initiation Program
2008-2009 Initiation Program
The Initiation Program (“IP”) is designed 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. The program is structured for beginners with some skating ability as a learn-to-play hockey program. Advanced skating skills are not required. However, it is encouraged that each player possess some basic skating ability or have completed some type of introductory skating instruction (e.g., Snowplow Sam through the Fairfax Country Parks Association). Skating fundamentals are critical for this age group and are continuously emphasized throughout the season. This is a great introductory program for youth who would like to try hockey!
Sessions are held on Sundays from 5:30 pm –to 7:00 pm for ten (10) weeks at the Mt. Vernon Recreation Center starting Sept. 16. Typically, three 10-week sessions are conducted each year, running from September to May. The cost is $150 per session.
Session I dates are:
Online registration is available via “online registration tab” on the club website: http://www.nova-icedogs.com. Registration forms can be downloaded from the NVHC website and mailed with payment.
Do we play games? Yes. Each Sunday session typically consists of drills and cross-ice games.
Where can I get equipment? The Fairfax Rink pro-shop gives a discount to NVHC players. The Kettler Capitals Iceplex in Balston, the Reston or Prince William SkateQuests, the Capitol Clubhouse in Waldorf, MD, are all other good local shops with knowledgeable sales people. There are also a variety of online suppliers. However, it is strongly recommended 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 purchasing new equipment is recommended for two reasons: fit and funk. Hockey protective equipment needs to fit properly in order to protect the wearer properly. Also, given the potentiality of staph and other type skin infections, new equipment is a safer option.
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? Of all a player’s hockey equipment it is probably most important that their hockey skates fit properly. You should try skates on at a local shop and have a knowledgeable sales person assist you. For this age group, fit is critically important to supporting the development of proper technique.
What equipment does my player need?
The IP program is a non-contact, no checking introductory program. However, even at the non-contact level incidental contact sometimes occurs. But with certified, quality, and well-fitting equipment, the frequency and severity of injuries is greatly decreased.
To ensure the safest playing environment possible for NVHC participants, skating members may not participate in on-ice activities without all of the necessary and properly approved Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC)-approved ice hockey equipment.
Players must wear the foregoing protective equipment during all practices, games, and all other on-ice activities sponsored by NVHC unless otherwise specified by event coordinators.
Last updated
July 29, 2008
This site maintained
by Karen Gritis
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