skip navigation

Little Pens Learn-to-Play

Learn to Play Program Information

Sidney Crosby's Little Penguins Learn to Play Hockey is an introductory program for children ages 5 to 9. The program aims to inspire families to join the sport. Little Penguins provides first-time participants FREE head-to-toe equipment, eight to ten weeks of age appropriate on-ice instruction, and certified coaching in a fun and safe atmosphere. Little Penguins is presented by the NHL and NHLPA with the support of Crosby, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, DICK'S Sporting Goods, CCM and USA Hockey.  

Registration Information 

  • Registration Little Pens
  • Registration MUST be completed online - telephone and on-site registrations will NOT be accepted.
  • Equipment sizes must be submitted during registration process. Please utilize the Equipment Fit Guide to determine sizes. 
  • Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with next steps. Please check your SPAM or PROMOTIONS folder as this e-mail may not arrive straight to your inbox.

Program Eligibility

Please note the following program eligibility requirements:

  • Participants must be between the ages of 5 and 9 years old. In addition, participants must not have their 10th birthday before December 31.
  • Offered to new, first-time participants, between the ages of five and nine. Participants must not have been previously registered with USA Hockey or participated in a hockey league/program.
  • It is strongly encouraged that participants complete a Learn to Skate class through their local rink prior to enrolling in Little Penguins.
  • Children who previously participated in the Little Penguins program, are NOT eligible to participate again.

*If the host facility becomes aware that a registered child has previous hockey league/program experience, the child will be removed from the Little Penguins program.

Equipment

Each participant's equipment set includes the following, customized by the Pittsburgh Penguins:

  • Skates
  • Shoulder pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Hockey gloves
  • Hockey pants
  • Shin guards
  • Helmet (with a cage)
  • Socks
  • Jersey
  • Stick
  • Equipment bag

We request that you purchase a neck guard as this will be required for your player to enter the ice by USA hockey rules.

The only equipment we suggest you purchase is a mouth guard and athletic supporter.