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2020 Fall First Strides Registration

Registration is open for First Strides, Connecticut’s Premier FREE Learn-to-Skate program developed by the Greater New Haven Warriors. The program provides aspiring players between the ages of 4 and up the opportunity to take their “first strides” in developing an interest in ice hockey. Emphasis is placed on the very basics of skating within a safe and fun environment. It is designed for first-time skaters only, please. Players who have previously participated in First Strides or another Learn-to-Skate program should register for the Warriors Learn-to-Play Hockey clinics.

Note: There is no cost to participate or use the loaner equipment (see equipment section below). All players must register with USA Hockey.    

Coaching: GNH Warriors Learn-to-Skate Director, Mike Bouchard, and his coaching staff grew up playing youth hockey in the New Haven area, as well as in high school, prep school, college and at the professional level. In order to meet the needs of each child, Mike and his staff draw upon their personal playing experiences and their history of coaching many different ages and levels, as well as the USA Hockey ADM Model and their love of the game!

Equipment: Players should wear a helmet with full face guard, hockey gloves and hockey skates. Shin guards and elbow pads are recommended as well. Discounted new equipment packages are available from The Pro Shop of Northford Ice Pavilion and used equipment is also available from Hamden Sport Center at 2858 Whitney Ave in Hamden.

Dates: First Strides runs for 4 days in September and kicks off Saturday, September 19 at 8:40 am. All sessions last for 1 hour and are held at Northford Ice Pavilion. The full schedule for Fall 2020 is:

Saturday, September 19th, 8:40 am

Sunday, September 20th, 8:40 am

Saturday, October 3rd 8:40 am

Sunday, October 4th, 8:40 am

Base Cost: $0.00