Hockey Basics - Mini Monsters [New to hockey]
Our Hockey Basics & Mini Monsters are the perfect "new to hockey" or "learn-to-play" programs that provide children their first step for entry-level development into hockey. These programs drill down on sound fundamental skills, while creating a super fun, positive, and encouraging environment for kids to find their passion for the game! These programs are offered in the Spring + Summer. During the Fall-Winter season, this program operates as the Mini Monsters. All ages and ability levels welcome, we just ask that athletes have completed at least once session of a "Learn to skate" program so they have some understanding of moving around on the ice.
Mini Monsters
Program Description
The Mini-Monsters Learn to Play program at Winterhurst Ice Arena is designed for children ages 3 to 14 who are eager to learn the fundamentals of hockey in a fun and supportive environment. In partnership with our professional hometown hockey organization, the Cleveland Monsters, and the Ohio Hockey Project, this program is our initiative to "Grow the Game" in Northeast Ohio. Our program introduces young athletes to the exciting world of hockey, focusing on key fundamentals in a fun and positive environment.
Program Details
Cost: $300 per sessions
Equipment: Loaner gear [head to toe] is included. Use of our equipment is not required
Ice Time: 2 weekly ice touches. Weeknights are skills focused, Weekends are games.
Schedule: 2 sessions per year. Athletes have the choice in skating in one, or both sessions.
Financial Assistance Available:
A limited number of Mini Monsters scholarships are available each session through the Cleveland Monsters.
Click HERE to apply.
Winterhurst
Location: Winterhurst Ice Arena, Lakewood.
Age Group: 3-8 year olds | 8-14 year olds
Ice Times: Thursdays - 5:40-6:25 p.m. | 6:25-7:10 p.m.
Saturdays - 10:30-11:15 a.m. | 11:15-12:00 p.m.
Fall-Winter Session: Oct 1 - Dec 19 (11 Weeks)
Off Days: 11/26 (Thanksgiving)
Winter-Spring Session: Jan 7 - Mar 13 (10 Weeks)
Off Days: 1/16 (MLK Weekend)
REGISTER HERE
Cleveland Heights
Location: Cleveland Heights Recreation Center, Cleveland Heights.
Age Group: 3-8 year olds | 8-14 year olds
Ice Times: Tuesdays - 5:00 - 5:45 p.m. | 5:45 - 6:30 p.m.
Saturdays - 12:45 - 1:30 p.m. | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
Fall-Winter Session: Sept 29 - Dec 19 (12 Weeks)
Off Days: 11/26, 11/28 (Thanksgiving)
Winter-Spring Session: Jan 5 - Mar 13 (10 Weeks)
Off Days: 1/16 (MLK Weekend)
REGISTER HERE
***NEW LOCATION***
Brooklyn
Location: John M. Coyne Recreation Center, Brooklyn
Age Group: 3-8 year olds
Ice Times: Fridays - 6:45 - 7:30 p.m.
Sundays - 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Fall-Winter Session: Oct 2 - Dec 18 (12 Weeks)
Off Days: 10/4 (Sunday), 11/15 (Sunday), 11/20 (Sunday), 11/27 (Thanksgiving), 11/29 (Thanksgiving)
Winter-Spring Session: Jan 8 - Mar 14 (10 Weeks)
Off Days: 2/12 (Baron Cup), 2/14 (Baron Cup)
REGISTER HERE
What to Expect
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Skill Development: Participants will learn essential hockey skills, including skating, puck handling, passing, and shooting. Our experienced coaches use age-appropriate drills and activities to ensure that each child progresses at their own pace.
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Fun and Engaging Environment: The Mini-Monsters program is designed to be enjoyable and engaging for young children. Through games and activities, kids will develop a love for the sport while building confidence on the ice.
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Teamwork and Sportsmanship: In addition to individual skills, participants will learn the importance of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Our coaches emphasize positive behavior and respect for others both on and off the ice.
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Equipment and Safety: Safety is our top priority. All participants will be provided with full hockey gear, including helmets with face masks, pads, and skates, as part of the program cost. These are loaner sets collected at the conclusion of the program.
- Requirements: No prior hockey experience is necessary.
Participants must have basic skating ability, and have already participated in a learn to skate program.
Due to the high level of interest and limited availability, spots are reserved exclusively for participants who are ONLY skating in the Mini Monsters program and not additional teams/associations.
Benefits of the Program
- Learn the basics: This is a comprehensive program that develops all the key fundamentals needed in the sport.
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Physical Fitness: Hockey is a great way for children to stay active and develop their physical fitness, including balance, coordination, and strength.
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Social Interaction: The program provides an opportunity for children to make new friends and build social skills in a team setting.
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Confidence Building: As children master new skills and gain proficiency on the ice, they build self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
Participants MUST have basic skating ability, and have already participated in a learn to skate program.
Parent Info
8Under (Mite)
Typically ages 5–7
Focus is on learning to skate, basic puck skills, and having fun. Practices emphasize movement, balance, and simple games. Most play is cross-ice or small-area, with no standings or scores tracked.
10Under(Squirt)
Typically ages 8–9
Players continue to develop strong skating skills while learning passing, shooting, and basic team play. Games are instructional, and the emphasis remains on development, confidence, and sportsmanship.
12Under (Peewee)
Typically ages 10–11
Players gain a better understanding of positions, rules, and game flow. Practices include more structured drills and small-area competition while continuing to prioritize skill development.
14Under (Bantam)
Typically ages 12–13
Athletes refine skills, improve conditioning, and learn more advanced team concepts. Competition increases, but development and respect for the game remain central.
Finding your next home program
The Ohio Hockey Project’s mission is to: positively shape the dynamic and landscape of the Cleveland Hockey Community through comprehensive player development and a lifelong commitment to helping each and every athlete to maximize their potential and reach their hockey goals.