- Learn to Skate is a local program offering free lessons for kids aged 8 to 14 years old who do not already know how to skate.
- The program launched in 2022 and is supported through the Whitchurch-Stouffville Legacy Fund and the Whitchurch-Stouffville Minor Hockey Association’s Kids First Fund.
- The Kids First Fund, founded in 2011, extends financial support to local families in need with aspiring young hockey players.
- Two sets of 10 skating sessions will be held on Tuesdays from October 17 to December 19. Lessons will take place at the Stouffville Arena from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Up to 35 participants can join a session, and priority will be given to Whitchurch-Stouffville residents.
- Instructors will include volunteer facilitators from the Ontario Minor Hockey Association Coaching Program.
- Those looking to participate will be sized for hockey equipment at an orientation session on October 10 at the Stouffville Arena. Each participant will receive a complimentary jersey and a checklist of required gear.
- “It’s all about building community through skating,” said Peter Harmsen of the Kids First Fund. “We know there are kids and teens in Stouffville who have never been on skates. We want to give them that opportunity to hopefully pick up a pastime they can enjoy for the rest of their lives.”
- Lessons will focus on skating fundamentals and provide children who are unsure about playing hockey an opportunity to experience the game without committing to an entire season.
- “We hope this program will encourage [kids] to come and try hockey with the Whitchurch-Stouffville Minor Hockey Association, Stouffville Markham Stars Girls Hockey Association, or the Stouffville Figure Skating Club,” Harmsen added.
- Registration forms are available here. There were just 14 spaces available at the time of publishing.
Photographs courtesy of Jim Mason
