The learn to skate program is administered by Kirk S. Nevin arena in conjunction with the ISI skating program. Learn to skate is not a function of Westmoreland Hockey Association, but our organization supports and recommends this program for all beginners. There are two programs available. The "ISI Tot Group" program is for ages 3-4 only. The "ISI Learn to Skate" program is for ages 5+. See below for more information.

(Information on this page subject to change. Please contact Kirk S. Nevin Arena to confirm program details.)

Rolling seasons. Typically start in September of each year – Please Register Early!

ISI Tot Group Lessons – Ages 3 & 4 only. We will not take children younger than 3. Lessons are based on ability, as every child learns at a different pace.

Classes are held on Thursdays from 6:30pm to 7:00pm.

We will offer several eight-week sessions @ $80.00 per participant per session throughout the year. Skate rental is included, if needed.

Children must have a helmet and gloves. There is a limit of participants per session, so register early to avoid disappointment. You may sign up for more than one session at a time and most children will participate in both sessions.

Below is a list of our sessions: 

Session #1: September 5, 2024 – October 10, 2024

Session #2: October 17, 2024 – November 21, 2024

Session #3: December 5, 2024 – January 9, 2025

Session #4: January 16, 2025 – February 20, 2025

Session #5: February 27, 2025 – April 3, 2025 

Important Guidelines:

• Never force a child on the ice. Allow them to walk around on the rubber floor to get used to the feel of the ice skates. Remember everyone has an “off” day.
• All participants must wear a helmet. Light clothing, easy to move in and gloves are necessary also. Bulky coats and snow pants are not needed.
• Once your child is on the ice with our instructors, please watch them from the bleachers. When parents stand at the gate door to watch, the child does not pay attention to the instructors. Walkers are used only if needed. Children will not learn to balance and stride with a walker.
• Only coaches, employees and participants are allowed on the ice surface. Do not ever walk on the ice surface to get your child.
• 30 minutes is a long time for a young child to stay on the ice. Expect them to take a break for the bathroom or to talk to you. Encourage them to return to the ice after their break. Attention spans are short for this age!
• If there is a behavior problem the child will be removed from the ice and taken to the parent in the hopes that the parent can explain and enforce the proper behavior.

Remember these are group lessons, not private one-on-one instruction. Our instructors know what it takes to teach a young child to skate and will never force a child to learn. Be patient with our staff and your child.

(Information on this program is subject to change. Please contact Kirk S. Nevin Arena to confirm program details.)

Ages 5 to Adult – Season starts in August – REGISTER EARLY!

We will offer several eight-week sessions for $80.00 per session. Skate rental is included. Classes are held on Thursday evenings. Your registration fee covers tests, badge and enrollment into ISI with $5,000 in Accident Insurance, a subscription to Recreational Ice Skating, a membership card and the opportunity to perform in competitions and shows. This membership is for a one-year period.

Below is a list of our Sessions: (Will update once released)

Session #1: September 5, 2024 – October 10, 2024

Session #2: October 17, 2024 – November 21, 2024

Session #3: December 5, 2024 – January 9, 2025

Session #4: January 16, 2025 – February 20, 2025

Session #5: February 27, 2025 – April 3, 2025

Times:

Pre Alpha – Beginner Class – Thursdays from 6:00pm to 6:30pm.  All new beginner skaters start at the Pre Alpha Level and advance into next level when instructors feel they are ready to test out of Pre Alpha.

Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Freestyle – Thursdays from 5:30pm to 6:00pm

ISI lessons are set up as ½ hour of instruction. Please be here early so as not to shortchange yourself of the lesson time. Remember these are group lessons, not one-on-one instruction.

What to wear? Helmets (bicycle helmet is fine) are recommended for beginners. Gloves are needed and layering clothes is better than bulky jackets.

Testing? We will test participants, who are ready to move onto the next level, on the last class of each session. Not all children will test. Students will then advance onto the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Freestyle levels as they test. 

Questions? If you have a concern or need clarification, please see the Arena Manager.

Special Note to Parents: Please do not stand at the gate during lessons. This distracts your child from paying attention to the instructors. Please watch your child from the bleachers. Thanks!

(Information subject to change. Please contact Kirk S. Nevin Arena to confirm program details.)