Dubuque Youth Hockey Association

This program is only for players who are new to DYHA and need instruction on skating basics.  It is held on four consecutive evenings (the first week of the hockey season), so that lessons are quick and easy to comprehend. It is a chance for young players to "try it out" and to determine if they would like to continue with the program. 

Skaters must have skates and a helmet with face guard. The ice is cold and hard, so mittens or gloves with snow pants or heavily padded sweatpants are recommended. Hockey gear can be worn on the third and fourth nights of the program.

If you have an questions, please leave a message on our "Hockey Hotline" at (563) 585-1423 or see the FAQ Below

Learn to Skate F.A.Q.....
 

• What are the objectives of the Learn to Skate Program?
  

Our goal is simple: To introduce children to skating and the game of hockey by teaching them fundamental skating skills in a fun environment. We do this by teaching them proper balance, forward skating, turning and stopping over the course of four (4) sessions. You'll be amazed how quickly they learn these skills.

• What equipment will my child need?

To participate in the learn to skate program, your child will need skates, a hockey helmet with face mask, and gloves. (Either Hockey gloves or winter gloves are acceptable). Elbow pads, and shin pads/knee pads are not required, but they are recommended. Participants should wear warm clothing. (snow pants are appropriate, and provide a little cushion for the inevitable fall). A learn to skate Equipment package (Helmet and Skates) is available at the equipment rental night Sept. 22nd or Sept. 23rd.

• How many instructors will be on the ice?

Since the instructors are all volunteer, it is impossible to know exactly how many will be available to assist. Ideally, we strive to maintain a maximum 3: 1 ratio of students to instructors. The Dubuque Thunderbirds will have players available to assist students on the ice.  The DYHA is always looking for parent volunteers to assist with students on the ice. Contact a DYHA board member for information.

• How much does Learn to Skate Cost?

Learn to skate Program cost $35.00.
Rental package (Skates and Helmet) cost $10.00.
The Cost of Learn to Skate is included with your registration as a first year Little Star or Mite.

• How often will my child skate?

The Learn to Skate program is four consecutive evenings, from 6-7pm, Monday through Thursday

• Will my child be in a group with children his/her own ability?

We generally try to organize children by ability into three groups on the ice. As the week progresses, children will progress through the groups.

• How early should I get to the rink before the L TS session?

We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes ahead of your scheduled ice time. You may wish to arrive even earlier to allow your child to adjust to the surroundings and to allow ample time to put on equipment. Please have your child use the restroom before getting geared up.

• Am I allowed on the ice during the L TS session?
  

No. Because of insurance regulations, and to ensure the effectiveness of the session for all children, parents and other family members are not allowed on the ice, unless they are coaches certified by DYHA and approved by the league. We will have board representatives at the rink for all sessions to answer your questions and provide assistance. These representatives will have Black DYHA shirts and nametags.

• What if my child is crying or upset while on the ice?

Young children sometimes will become upset during a LTS session. This is sometimes due to the unfamiliar nature of the rink, not to mention the initial difficulty in standing up on the ice! We ask that you remain patient. Our coaches are experienced in handling this frustration and will help your child overcome it. Again, please see the DYHA off-ice staff assigned to the rink, which will provide assistance as needed.

• The L TS Program is only four sessions long, where can my child go from here?

The Dubuque Youth Hockey Association has available an Instructional Hockey Program called Little Stars, which will continue the instructional process begun in the LTS Program. On the last night of the Learn to Skate program, a flyer will be handed out with additional information.

• How can I get current information?

Please note that we do a great deal of communication via our web site and email. Be sure to check the website often and during registration be sure to provide an accurate email address that is checked often.

• When and Where do I sign my kid(s) up?

New Players sign-up is on Tuesday, Sept. 15th or Wednesday Sept. 16th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Five Flags Center.

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