WJHA offers different instructional programs at the Learn to Skate and Learn to Play levels throughout the year. Registration is now open for our upcoming season of LTS/LTP. This session will begin Saturday September 28, 2024 and run through March 2025. We are proud of our team of skilled and knowledgeable coaches and believe we offer the best experience as well as value to introduce your young one to the game of ice hockey. Our players progress from Learn to Skate through Learn to Play as we get them ready to transition into their first season of competitive play. Use the registration link below to enroll or click on each session's menu tab to get more information. 

1) What age do you recommend starting LTS?

While I personally think all kids are different, generally four years old+ is a great time to begin in our Learn to Skate program. At this age most kids are mature enough to show a reasonable amount of focus and effort through the session even if it may feel a bit challenging at times. And of course our coaches will be supporting them the whole way through! Some kids who are exposed to the rink and watch skating from an early age may acclimate themselves to being on the ice sooner, for some it’s an adjustment that takes time. The more ice time they get, the faster it will come to them. 

2) Do kids need to buy hockey gear to do LTS/LTP?

For Learn to Skate, children will need some type of helmet with a cage, gloves and skates and a neck guard (now required) to participate. Knee and elbow pads are also recommended. These do not have to be hockey specific gear. LTS children can wear bike pads, figure skates, etc.

For our Learn to play program, children will need skates, helmet with cage, neck guard, gloves, pants, shin guards, elbow pads, and a stick. Our friends at Sandy Lane Sports have great packages at reasonable prices and can outfit your child with everything they’ll need for the program. 

3) My child knows how to skate but has never played hockey. Should they start in LTS or LTP?

If your child has experience on the ice and has a desire to play hockey I’d recommend Learn to Play because of the value of the ice time. They’ll see more ice with our Learn to Play program and will get to meet new friends while learning from some of the finest coaches around. 

4) When do I know if my child is ready to learn to LTP?

It your child is comfortable falling and getting right back up and can skate the width of the ice, I’d say they’re ready for the transition to skating with a stick and playing hockey. At young ages, it’s amazing to watch how fast they progress with what you teach them. 

5) What makes Warwick’s program different than others in the state? 

Warwick hockey has always been a strong program with deep roots. The fact that a lot of the people who grew up in the program and return to coach their own children here speaks volumes. We’re a nonprofit organization full of people who grew up here and came back solely for the love of the game and the kids. That isn't true with every program out there.