Mites

The Ice Mites program has been designed to introduce young children as young a 3 years to the game of ice hockey. The program follows the guidelines suggested by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and endorsed by Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) and Ice Hockey NSW (IHNSW). There are as few as 3 children per coach on the ice at a time with the emphasis on fun and participation.

There is no particular need to know how to skate however the basic level of at least being able move away from the wall and join the group mid ice is desirable. Most kids who want to play will find any way to join in. From there the coaches will teach the basics of skating and develop this skill to the end point of being able to play the game. Experience has shown that paying less attention to the detail of skating (at first) and focusing the kids’ attention to moving after the puck and trying to hit it provide a great platform to build those skills.

The Ice Mites program runs over the school terms on Sunday mornings from 8am. The minimum of equipment (skates, hockey stick and helmet) is required and for those who want to come and try, these are available from the rink. Ski gloves are fine to start with to keep little hands warm but ultimately the padding and protection of hockey gloves will prevent injury.

The club also has a limited range of second hand gear which we offer on a “swap and go” arrangement to help with equipment that kids grow out of quickly. In the early sessions it is also good to have some cheap roller blade or skateboard knee and elbow pads so falls don’t hurt.

As the kids’ progress and move toward playing games it becomes more necessary to have all the protective gear including padded pants; shin and knee pads; hockey elbow pads; hockey shoulder pads and skates. Again second hand gear may be available but the pro shop at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium has a wide range of gear at reasonable prices with the back up of people who are aware of how the gear should fit.

Skates shouldn’t be too big. Don’t buy for the child to grow into them over two seasons. It will inhibit and limit their skating ability. Take advantage of any second hand skates or buy only cheap hockey skates.

Ice hockey is a fast and skillful game that when played well is safe to play and exciting to watch. The philosophy of the Newcastle North Stars Ice Hockey Club (NNSIHC), as it pertains to the younger players, is not to focus on competition and winning. These things look after themselves in time. Developing skills and having fun are the priority with the kids; forming a sense of belonging to a team and club.

Enquiries can be made via email to the President of NNSIHC or through the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium.