PLAYER AND GOALIES

A Cro’s Ice Nest signature program, our Learn to Skate process is unlike any other. Starting in their running shoes on a synthetic ice surface (a product which simulates real ice but is far less slippery and much easier for the new skater to stand and move around on), the child will learn the steps we are going to take to teach them to skate without the distraction of wearing skates and large helmet.

Once they are comfortable with these activities we get their skates and helmet on and repeat the process using a skating aid on the synthetic ice surface. Once they have mastered their movements using the skating aid, we have specific drills to transition them to movements on their own without the need for assistance. When the child demonstrates good balance and the ability to get up on their own, our goal for the first session is complete and the child leaves their first skating lesson full of confidence and anxious to come back and try the real ice. In most circumstances this is a private lesson for 30 minutes for $20

Moving to he real ice is tremendous step and one which needs to be taken slowly. The skater should be dressed in warm clothes, (snowpants and winter coat are ideal but hockey equipment is also a good option) and starts with their skates and helmet in place. They hold onto the skating aid while we talk to them and get them feeling comfortable standing in one spot on the ice. We slowly begin the same series of drills we used the first session as we attempt to get them moving around the ice surface. The sessions progress from here and before too long the child is moving around the ice without the need to use a skating aid. It is at this point when we can start to introduce a hockey stick if the child is interested in going that route. On ice sessions can be 30 minutes or 1 hour in length and can be private, semi-private or small group settings. The cost will vary according to the session length and number of skaters on the ice.

To book please text Rob 519-717-7269. Live Schedule link below.

The fundamentals of hockey skating form the cornerstone for any aspiring hockey player’s skill set. These are the fundamental skills we teach:

1. Balance and Stance: Maintaining a low and balanced stance is crucial for stability and quick movement on the ice. Players learn to distribute their weight properly, keeping their centre of gravity low for better control.
2. Stride and Glide: Developing a powerful and efficient skating stride is essential. This involves pushing off with the inside edges of the skates, extending the leg, and gliding smoothly. Players work on generating speed and maintaining momentum through controlled strides.
3. Edges Control: Understanding how to use the inside and outside edges of the skate blades is key for maneuverability. Players practice edge control for sharp turns, quick stops, and overall agility on the ice.
4. Crossovers: Crossovers involve crossing one skate over the other to navigate turns efficiently. This skill is vital for fluid movement and maintaining speed while maneuvering around opponents.
5. Backward Skating: Learning to skate backward is crucial in hockey for defensive play and overall situational awareness on the ice. Players focus on mastering backward strides and crossovers.
6. Quick Starts and Stops: Acceleration and deceleration are fundamental to hockey. Players practice quick starts to get up to speed rapidly and abrupt stops for sudden changes in direction.
7. Pivoting and Turning: Pivoting on one foot and making quick turns are essential for evading opponents and changing direction rapidly during gameplay.
8. Transitions: Smooth transitions between forward and backward skating, as well as between various maneuvers, are crucial for adapting to the dynamic nature of hockey.
9. Puck Control: While not exclusively a skating skill, learning to skate while handling the puck is integral to a complete hockey skill set. Players work on stickhandling and skating simultaneously.
10. Agility and Speed: Agility drills focus on improving a player’s overall quickness and ability to change direction rapidly. Speed training enhances a player’s ability to cover ground swiftly.

By honing these fundamentals, hockey players build a solid foundation that enhances their overall performance on the ice. Regular practice and proper coaching are essential for mastering these skills and becoming a proficient hockey skater.

To book please text Rob 519-717-7269. Live Schedule link below.

The Learn to Play Program presents an exceptional pathway for children to seamlessly progress from their foundational Learn to Skate lessons to acquiring essential hockey skills before entering the minor hockey systems. This program goes beyond the basics, incorporating crucial elements such as passing, shooting, understanding positions, and familiarizing participants with some fundamental rules of the game. By introducing these key aspects, young players gain a holistic understanding of the sport, preparing them for a smoother transition into more competitive hockey environments.

Emphasizing both skill development and enjoyment, the Learn to Play Program ensures that each session is not only instructive but also infused with a ton of fun. This combination of skill-building and a positive, engaging atmosphere contributes to the participant’s overall development, fostering a genuine love for the game. As participants progress through the program, they not only acquire the technical skills needed for competitive play but also develop a sense of confidence that will serve them well as they advance to join hockey teams. The ultimate goal is to cultivate young athletes who not only possess the necessary skills but also approach the game with enthusiasm, forming a solid foundation for a lifelong appreciation of hockey.

To book please text Rob 519-717-7269. Live Schedule link below.