Q. Which class should I enroll in?
A. If you have never skated before or have not had any formal instruction, please start in the following classes: Snowplow Sam 1 (ages 3-6), Basic 1 (ages 7-16), and Adult 1 (ages 16+). Participants between the ages of 16 and 18 may choose between the Basic and Adult tracks. Participants interested in hockey should first pass Snowplow Sam 4, Basic 2, or Adult 2 before enrolling in Learn to Skate Hockey.
Once in class, your instructor will assess whether you are in the appropriate level and make any necessary adjustments within the first two weeks of the series.
Q. How do I progress through the classes?
A. During each series, you will learn and practice the skills from your enrolled class. In the final week of the series, your instructor will evaluate you to determine whether you should pass or repeat the class. This evaluation determines which class to enroll in for the next series.
All participants receive a certificate, and those who pass will also receive a badge for the level they have completed. Each participant progresses at their own pace, and because each level builds on the previous one, it is most important to feel comfortable and confident in your level before moving up.
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The Snowplow Sam 1-4 track is for participants ages three to six. After completing all four Snowplow levels, you can move up to Basic 3.
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The Basic 1-6 track is for participants ages seven to fifteen. After completing all six Basic levels, you can move up to Pre-Free Skate.
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The Adult track is for participants ages sixteen and up. After completing all six Adult levels, you can move up to Pre-Free Skate.
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The Free Skate track is for participants who have completed all Basic or Adult levels. It is highly recommended to take private lessons along with classes at this point.
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The prerequisite for Hockey 1-4 is Snowplow Sam 4 or Basic 2, and the prerequisite for Adult Hockey is Adult 2.
Q. What if I feel nervous?
A. It is completely normal for new participants to feel nervous, especially during their first class or two. Our instructors are experienced in working with beginners and will help you feel comfortable at your own pace. We encourage parents to offer reassurance and support - most participants gain confidence quickly once they get on the ice and start having fun.
Q. How should I prepare for class?
A. First and foremost, please read our Welcome Message, which is also featured at registration. It includes all the information you need for the series.
Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes in advance to allow time to check in at the front desk if you are renting skates, review the Learn to Skate board, which includes class location and instructor information, and get your skates on. All beginner classes (Snowplow Sam 1, Basic 1, and Adult 1) meet in the lobby during the first week of the series for off-ice orientation.
Q. What if I arrive late?
A. If you arrive late, you are still welcome to join your class. Please check the Learn to Skate board, enter the ice safely, and let your instructor know when you arrive. We recommend arriving early whenever possible to ensure a smooth start to your class.
Q. Can family and friends watch?
A. Yes! Family and friends are welcome to watch from the designated viewing areas. We kindly ask that spectators remain off the ice and out of class areas so instructors can keep students focused and safe during class.
Q. What should I expect from the series?
A. Please note that the first week of the series may feel a bit busy as we finalize registrations, adjust class placements, welcome late arrivals, and give our coaches time to get to know their students. We appreciate your patience during this transition period.
Things typically settle by the second week, with instructors and students finding their rhythm for the remainder of the series. The final week is dedicated to evaluations.
If your child is registered for a Silver or Gold package, they are welcome to continue attending class after they have been evaluated to review their curriculum one more time and, if needed, have an opportunity to be re-evaluated.
Q. Do I need to have my own skates?
A. You are not required to have your own skates. You may opt for a skate rental package add-on or rent per class. However, having your own skates is highly recommended. Please consider this before opting for the skate rental package add-on, as the fee is non-refundable should you choose to purchase your own skates within the series.
We sell Jackson Ultima skates in our pro-shop. Contact us for more information.
Q. What is proper skating attire, and how do I fit and lace my skates?
A. We highly recommend helmets for beginners (all Hockey classes require a HECC-approved helmet), gloves, warm non-bulky layers, and lightweight socks that go above the ankle. Skates should fit snug and be laced tightly.
Refer to our First Day of Skating resource for detailed information on proper skating attire and how to fit and lace skates.
Q. Can I make up a missed class?
A. If your package allows make-up opportunities, you are welcome to take them. All Bronze and Silver packages for Snowplow Sam 1-4, Basic 1-6, and Adult 1-6 have make-up opportunities. Make-ups are not available for Silver Pre/Free Skate and Hockey packages, or any Gold packages.
To make up a missed class, attend the same level on any other day it is offered within the series, and let your instructor know that you are completing a make-up when they take attendance.
Q. How do I redeem my six complimentary public skates?
A. To redeem the public skates that come with your Learn to Skate registration, you must check in at the front desk, stating your name and that you are there from Learn to Skate. The complimentary public skates are only valid from the first day of the series until the last day of the series, and cannot be used for any other kind of session. If you ordered additional public skate stickers during registration, you can pick them up at the front desk starting from the first day of class.
Q. What if class is cancelled?
A. In the event of a cancellation, participants will be notified via email and Remind and provided with information regarding make-up options when available.
Q. Do you offer trial classes?
A. We do not offer trial classes at this time.
Q. Can I get a refund?
A. Registration fees are non-refundable. Credits may be issued through the end of the first week of the series only.