A program previously offered by Arctic Zone and Carmel Ice Skadium will continue to operate but under the leadership of Indianapolis Youth Hockey Association. The Jr. Racers Learn to Play Hockey program offers classes for kids ages 3 to 17 and teaches them how to skate and play hockey.
“We are a very unique program in that most learn-to-play hockey programs require you to learn to skate (in classes) first before being eligible to come learn to play hockey, but we have created a unique, customized program that teaches both learning to skate and learning to play hockey all in one,” IYHA Administrator J.J. Beck said.
The ice rinks previously ran the program, but owner Mike Aulby opted to let IYHA take over in order for a smoother transition for kids to enter other youth hockey programs within IYHA.
“The Carmel Ice Skadium and the Arctic Zone have always partnered on youth hockey with the IYHA,” Aulby said. “By having the IYHA take over the Learn to Play Hockey program, it makes an easier transition for our customers entering into the youth hockey programs they offer.”
IYHA conducts the programs at Arctic Zone, 16616 Southpark Dr., during its seasonal open dates of September through March. Classes at Arctic Zone are at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays. IYHA offers the classes year-round at the Carmel Ice Skadium, 1040 3rd Ave. SW, Carmel, for a 4 p.m. Tuesday class. It is $95 for one weekly class a month.
“It’s more interactive, more engaging, more fun, and they certainly learn quickly,” Beck said. “Our whole goal is to get them, within six months, onto a team and into a league.”
IYHA will provide gently used equipment if needed, but a helmet, stick and gloves are required. For more, visit iyha.com/ltp.
