Welcome to The Game

We’re so glad you’re here. Whether your kid just saw a hockey game for the first time or you’ve been tossing around the idea for a while — stepping into this world can feel overwhelming. But you’re not alone. We’ve helped hundreds of families take their first strides, and this guide is here to walk you through it, every step of the way.

Hockey can be one of the most rewarding journeys your family takes — and it all starts here.

1. Taking the First Steps Onto the Ice

Taking the First Step Onto the Ice

What to do:

  • Find your nearest rink. We have a great resource HERE to find a rink close to you.
  • Look for beginner programs called "Learn to Skate or "Try Hockey for Free."
  • Contact the rink to ask: "Is rental gear provided for beginners?"
  • Sign up for a session that fits your schedule. Bring gloves, a jacket, and a good attitude - that's all you need at first.

What to expect:

  • Your child will spend most of the time learning to fall and stand back up.
  • Coaches usually teach in small groups, by skill level - no games of full hockey gear needed yet (unless your going stright to "Learn to Play."

Gearing Up - Without Breaking the Bank

What to do:

  • Visit a trusted local hockey shop (like us!) or secondhand sports store.
  • Ask for help getting properly sized — especially for skates and helmets.
  • Start with used gear if you can. Kids grow fast, and it's much cheaper.
  • If buying new, prioritize a good helmet (safety first) and properly fitted skates (comfort and performance).

How to fit skates:

  • Hockey skates are different sizes than regular shoes — about one to two size down from sneakers.
  • Your child’s toes should gently feather the inside front of the skate when standing, but not curl up painfully.
  • Always try skates on with hockey socks (not thick winter socks)

How to fit a helmet:

  • Most helmets are adjustable now for a about an inch.
  • It should fit level across the forehead and not wiggle around.
  • The cage or face shield should come just below the chin with no large gaps.
  • If your child is complaining about side pressure, change models. Generally speaking Bauer is more narrow than CCM.

Registering for USA Hockey

Before your player can participate in practices or games, they must be registered with USA Hockey. This is required for all USA Hockey-sanctioned teams, leagues, and events.

USA Hockey registration includes:

  • Insurance coverage during practices and games
    Access to officially recognized teams and leagues
  • Player and parent resources
  • National tracking of player development

When to Register:

Registration opens each year on April 1. The yearly hockey season runs from September 1st - August 31st. Registration must be renewed every season with most organizations requiring it done prior to the start of any training camps or first team practice.

How to Register:

  • Visit USA Hockey's Website
  • Select "Register Player"
  • Complete the for with your personal information.
  • Pay the registration fees (Typical costs are $15 for players ages 6 and under | $50 for players ages 7-18)
  • Save your confirmation number as you will need it multiple times throughout the season for various things. Example number looks like 298500774MORGA

Key Things to Know:

  • Make sure your team is part of USA Hockey before registering (Some Full-Ice Mite programs are not USA Hockey Registered)
  • Most organizations require an additional team-specific registration.
  • Some local orgs/rinks offer help registering, if you're unsure The Sharpening Dude is always here to lend a hand email us at info@sharpeningdude.com
USA Hockey Registration