2019 LEARN TO PLAY SCHEDULE

Calling all kids! If you have always wanted to try hockey, now is your chance! The Maine Gladiators Dunkin' Learn to Play program is wildly popular and is lots of FUN.  Consider learning to play with one of the most exciting leagues around, the Maine Gladiators!

The Dunkin' Learn To Play program is for beginning skaters, ages 4 and up, who have not played hockey before.  Adult and student coaches volunteer their time to help assist new players on the ice. Once new skaters feel comfortable in their equipment, we help show them how to skate, fall down, and get back up to try again. As they progress, kids play games and are offered simple drills to try.

Our hope is that each child enjoys the sport and continues on to their age appropriate division and becomes a lifelong hockey player!

• Players must be 4 years of age or older.  Players can start at 3, but they must turn 4 during the session they are registering to attend.
• Player may only access this free program for the equivalent of one hockey season. The general rule-of-thumb suggests that after three 6-week sessions, most players are ready for graduation.
• If your child has already completed a season of Learn to Play, please refer to this age classification document and search our website for age-appropriate opportunities.

To register, go to our Registration & Payment page and choose Learn To Play.  A USA Hockey registration is required for ages 7+ for a nominal yearly fee.

Your child will be required to wear full hockey gear. A jersey will be provided but please bring your own baggy sweatpants or hockey socks.  Bring a water bottle clearly marked with your child's name.

Through our partnership with the Boston Bruins, new players can  purchase equipment through the Bruins Academy program. The $140 program fee includes head-to-toe fitted hockey gear and 4 ice sessions. This is one of the best hockey deals we have seen and we encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity.

We also have equipment that we are happy to share on a first come first serve basis. For a $25 fee and a signed waiver we will provide your child with equipment that they can use during the season. To borrow equipment, please contact Denis using the link at the bottom of this page.  (Please note, we do not have skates and very few helmets to lend.)

• Leave plenty of time to get dressed (we recommend 40-60 minutes for first time families)
• One parent/guardian in the locker room to assist the child in dressing.
• If your child is upset/crying, ask for a coach's assistance when getting on the ice.
• When your child has entered the ice surface, move away from the glass and watch from the stands. 

Here are some videos to learn what to expect at Dunkin' Learn To Play.

Email Denis Berube, U8 Director, by clicking the envelope below: