Hockey FAQ

Q: What programs do you offer for beginner skaters?
A: The first step is our Learn To Skate Hockey program, which teaches your child how to skate and gives an introduction to skating on hockey skates. Skaters learn the fundamentals of skating (stride, turning, stopping, backwards) through weekly classes. After graduating from Learn to Skate Hockey, skaters can move on to our Hockey Initiation Program. In this program, skaters continue to work on their basic skills while also learning the fundamentals of hockey. Passing, stick handling, and shooting are introduced and practiced. This class meets twice a week.

Q: What equipment do I need to participate?
A:To participate in Learn to Skate, you will only need to supply a helmet and skates (skates can also be rented.) It is recommended that skaters wear knee pads and gloves, as they will certainly fall while learning new moves! As your skater progresses on to Hockey Initiation, you will need the following equipment: Skates, shin guards, hockey socks, jock, shoulder pads, elbow pads, pants, hockey gloves, stick, helmet with cage. A hockey jersey is provided.

Q: What is House League?
A: The House League is designed to foster a love for the game while developing basic skills. The league promotes creativity and fosters the development of basic skills by letting the kids just play the game. The House League meets twice a week for games.Players should have some basic skill and permission from the Initiation Program Director to enter the House League.

Q: What is Travel Hockey?
A:Travel hockey is designed for the more experienced hockey player to play at a higher level of competition. The Richmond Thunder organization offers teams from Mite to Midget levels. Players compete with and against the best players in the area during league play, non league games, and tournaments. Teams practice 2 to 3 times per week and play games on the weekends. Our teams compete in the Long Island Hockey League. After teams are picked in April, they will begin practices in August and conclude the season in March.

Q: What are the ages for Hockey?
A:Players are grouped as follows:

Division           Age Group
Mite              8 and under
Squirt            10 and under
Peewee         12 and under
Bantam          14 and under
Midget 16      16 and under
Midget 18      18 and under
High School     players currently in high school

Q: When is checking allowed?
A: Checking is permitted at the Midget level and above. Although contact is inevitable at the younger levels, intentional checking is not permitted until Midgets.