Learn to Play Hockey classes provide children the opportunity to learn the basics of skating and hockey from USA Hockey-trained instructors in a fun-to-learn, relaxed, noncompetitive atmosphere. No skating or hockey experience is required.

Each class includes 40 minutes of skating and stick instruction and a 10-minute hockey game. Upon completion of the classes, players are ready to join the RMU ISC Island Colonials and enjoy playing with children of similar age and ability.

A structured lesson plan provides a strong foundation of skating know-how and confidence building. Skills include stance, walking, t-push, two-foot glide, scooting, O's, preparing for snowplow stop, backwards stance and walking.

Each week includes a review of skills learned in Pre Hockey/Learn to Skate and the introduction of new skills such as snowplow stop, one-foot glides, backward O's and forward strides. From this solid base, the fundamental skills of skating, stick handling, passing and shooting can be properly taught.

Each week includes a review of skills learned in Hockey I and the introduction of new skills such as v-start, stationary and moving stick handling, open ice carry, forehand and backhand passing and receiving, turning, use of feet to control puck and stopping with the puck.

Because our program fills very quickly we have adopted the following priority registration policy to ensure that returning children have the opportunity to register as long as they meet the deadline.

Priority 1
Skaters enrolled in the present session.

Priority 2
* Siblings of students enrolled in the present session.
* Customers and their immediate family members enrolled as an individual in any RMU program.
* Family members of the Arctic Foxes or Pittsburgh Hornets.
* Students who have been enrolled in a learn to play hockey class within 6 months of the upcoming session.

Priority 3
Open registration.

Classes require a USA Hockey approved helmet (HECC) with facemask, hockey skates, hockey elbow pads, hockey shin guards, hockey gloves (mittens are allowed for little ones), warm clothing and a hockey stick. An athletic cup, shoulder pads, pants and neck guard are recommended. All skaters will receive an RMU Island Colonials hockey jersey for the first session in which they enroll. Rental skates are available at no charge. The RMU ISC Pro Shop offers a special Beginner's Package and an Equipment Buy Back Program. For more information, call 412-397-4459.

All skaters must be registered with USA Hockey and must be done via the internet. Go to www.usahockey.com and click on 'online registration'. Once you have completed the registration process you will be e-mailed a confirmation page with a 14 digit confirmation number. We need this number to enroll you in the Learn to Play Hockey program.

You can either forward the confirmation e-mail to us at buterbaugh@rmuislandsports.org, bring a printed copy with you when you register for learn to play hockey, or mail the printed copy along with your class registration.

The fee is $35 for all players born 2002 and earlier, but there is no charge for those born 2003 and later. However, ALL players must register with USA Hockey, even those who do not have to pay.

This membership fee is valid through August 31, 2010.

The RMU Island Sports Center Learn To Play Hockey program is taught under the guidelines of the USA Hockey Initiation Program which places the emphasis on fun and learning.

The program provides coaches with a basic education in leadership, communication, safety, teaching skills, skill analysis and lesson plan preparation in relation to youth hockey. All coaches teach from an 80-week written and pictorial lesson plan manual.

Your registration fee also includes six Stick Time passes, which can also be used for public skating.

Parents, assistant coaches are needed.  Do not worry about having to skate like Sidney Crosby.  If you enjoy working with children, we would love to have you on the ice - its fun!!!

We supply you with the "what, when and how" to teach - you supply the enthusiasm and a lending hand. Please note all parents wishing to help out on the ice must wear a USA Hockey HECC certified hockey helmet.

Level 1 coaching seminars are available through USA Hockey. We will reimburse you for the registration fee if your chose to attend any level 1 seminar.

For more information on registering for these seminars please go to the USA Hockey website, usahockey.com.

Interested volunteers should complete the "Assistant Coaches" section on the attached registration form. Thanks for your help - it will be fun!!!

Please note Online registration is NOT available for this program.
Schedule and Print/Mail Registration information is located to the left.