The SHAW Development Program is a learn-to-skate program geared for children ages 3 to 6 who are new to skating and to hockey. We introduce basic hockey skills (skating, stick handling and passing) in a fun and informal environment. Some children have already done Snow Plow Sam or similar program, but many have never laced up skates before. We use skills, drills, & games from the USA Hockey curriculum and liberally borrow other age appropriate games & activities.
Devos do not play timed hockey games against opponents. At some point in the season, devos will scrimage cross-ice against each other.
Devos is low key and low pressure. Each skater learns at her/his own pace. We encourage each child to try a skill or technique that is just beyond his or her ability. Children who are confident will push their limits, take chances and improve the most. We do not force children to participate.
Our goal is for new players to have a positive first hockey experience and to develop skills and self-confidence. In addition to the obvious benefits of physical activity, hockey also teaches life skills such as persistence, cooperation, and teamwork. It is our goal to instill in all our skaters a sense of fair play and good sportsmanship.To learn more about this, see USA Hockey and Hockey Canada’s “One Goal” www.onegoal.com
Over the course of the season each devos will learn to stand quite literally on his (or her) own feet. Second year devos will improve basic skills and develop better hockey sense.
Volunteers Needed
The instructor to skater ratio is important, so we invite parents to volunteer on the ice. SHAW hockey players also volunteer. Everyone must wear a certified hockey helmet. Skaters under 18 must wear full gear. Let me know if you are interested. All volunteers are subject to the coaching staff’s approval. No volunteer is allowed on the ice without the coaching staff’s explicit approval.
Our home rink is Wilson Park (20th St. and Howard Ave). The season starts up in late October or early November. For the past 5 years, devos skated on Saturdays between 10:00-11:00. The season will probably end in late February. Registration fees have not been set, but my best guess is $300. Milwaukee County has increased the cost of ice rental, so it might be higher. There are many opportunities for fundraising to defray costs.
All Devos should have the following gear:
- Helmet with full cage or visor: this is the most important piece of safety equipment. Make sure it is HECC certified and it fits properly.
- Mouth guard: all SHAW skaters are required to use a mouth guard.
- Hockey Skates: Devos and mini-mites will probably need a new pair of skates every year because they will out grow their old ones. Practicing once a week and the occasional public skating session barely breaks in brand new boots. There is nothing wrong with a pair of used skates if the uppers and the blades are in good condition. Get them sharpened at a reputable pro shop. Always dry the blades after use.
- Stick: Don’t spend a fortune. I recommend a wooden youth stick with a straight blade. Young players may hold the stick left handed for one practice and right for the next. Let them experiment until they figure out what is more natural.
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Gloves
- Pants
- Suspenders or belt
- Jock or Jill
- Shin pads
- Jersey: one practice jersey will be provided.
- Hockey socks
- Garter belt
- Duffle bag or hockey bag
I suggest buying gear from a Hockey shop. The local pro shops have well trained staff to help you select the right gear in the right size. Some SHAW families prefer Hockey Haven. Others use the Hockey Locker. Play it Again Sports on Layton near 76th may have used gear.
Email me for additional information.
Molly Larkin, Director of Devos. CEP Level 4. No. 133202 lostshield@yahoo.com
