New To Hockey
New to Hockey? You’re in the Right Place!
We know hockey can feel overwhelming for new families. Our goal is to make getting started simple, affordable, and fun by providing:
- Easy-to-follow information for new hockey families
- Low-cost entry-level programs designed for beginners
- Equipment resources to help reduce the cost of getting started
- A fun, welcoming environment where kids can learn, grow, and love the game
Whether your child has never put on skates or is ready to give hockey a try, we’ll help you every step of the way.
We’re excited to welcome you to the Altoona Hockey family. See you at the rink!
Mini Mite Hockey is our entry-level program for kids ages 4–9, No previous hockey experience is needed!
🏒 FREE EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE TO USE FOR FIRST-YEAR PLAYERS!
Please note: We have limited quantities of rental equipment available, and equipment intended for 1st year players. We will do everything we can to support equipment requests, but if demand exceeds supply, we will give priority to first year players.
EQUIPMENT LIST
*Game Jerseys are provided by the Association and will be handed out at the beginning of the season.
REQUIRED:
- Hockey Skates
- Helmet with full face shield
- Mouth Guard (required by USA Hockey?)
- Neck Guard (required by USA Hockey?)
- Chest protector/ shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Hockey gloves
- Protective jock (boys) or pelvic protector (girls). These are shorts with protection in front and velcro to hold up socks.
- Hockey shin guards
- Breezers (hockey pants)
- Practice jersey and practice hockey socks
- Hockey stick
- Game Hockey Socks (Found at Play it Again Sports)
RECOMMENDED:
- Hockey bag to carry equipment
- Skate blade protectors
- Water bottle
Play it Again Sports in Eau Claire is a great place to look!
Hockey Skates
Properly fit hockey skates are the most important piece of equipment for young skaters. Skates should fit correctly and be sharpened periodically throughout the season, depending on how much usage. Young mite players do not need expensive skates. Focus on fit before high performance or stiffness. Visit a dedicated hockey retailer to get sized appropriately. Some examples in the local area are:
- Scheels
- Play It Again Sports
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child play if they have never skated before?
Yes. There are no requirements to have skated prior to playing hockey. We recommend that your child attends a learn to skate, or open skating prior to starting hockey, but there is no requirement.
Can I rent equipment?
Yes. Beginner protective equipment is available for rent for the season for FREE. A check of $100 will be made to Altoona Youth Hockey Association at the time of rental. At the end of the season, when the equipment is returned, a check will be returned to you in the amount of $100.
**Equipment is intended for 1st year skaters. We will strive to equip anyone who is interested in the rental program, but please understand equipment is limited and some sizes may be unavailable**
Do I need to participate in fundraising and Volunteering?
Yes. Fundraising and volunteering throughout the season is critical to the success of the Altoona Youth Hockey Association. We are a 100% volunteer run organization. It takes all of the amazing families in our community to create a special environment for our kids. As part of the registration process, you will read and sign the fundraising (raffle tickets) and volunteering policy. There are buyout options for both of those programs.
Does Mite Registration close? Do I have to pay a late registration fee?
No. Mite Registration remains open throughout the fall and even during the season. A player can register at any time.
Have additional questions or comments?
Email: ayhasecretary.wi@gmail.com