Registration is underway for Learn to Skate programs, Mini Mite and Mite Hockey and Introduction to Girls’ Hockey programs at Dobson Ice Arena, offering skaters ages four and older an opportunity to learn a new sport or improve their skills. The Vail Recreation District (VRD) offers multiple sessions beginning this week for all its youth ice skating programs, which last throughout the 2012-13 school year.
Jr. Prep, Jumps and Spins Sessions
Underway to Oct. 8, Oct. 15 to Nov. 12, Jan. 7 to Feb. 4, Feb. 11 to March 11 and March 18 to April 15
An extension of the Learn to Skate program, these classes teach advanced moves and skills to help take participants’ skating to the next level. Skaters ages six and older must pass the basic level 6 to participate. This class offers participants 30 minutes of instruction followed by 60 minutes of freestyle skating. Sessions take place from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. on Mondays. Cost is $100 per session.
Learn to Skate Sessions
Sept. 12 to Oct. 10, Oct. 17 to Nov. 14, Jan. 9 to Feb. 6, Feb. 13 to March 13 and March 20 to April 17
The Learn to Skate program is designed for children ages four and older who are interested in learning the basics of either figure or ice hockey skating. Sessions take place at 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. or 4:15 to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays. Cost is $60 per session and includes skate rental.
VRD Mini Mite and Mite Hockey Seasons
Oct. 4 to Dec. 20 and Jan. 12 to Mar. 3
Children who participate in the Mini Mite, for ages five to six, and Mite, for ages seven to eight, youth hockey programs will learn the fundamentals of ice hockey through fun and educational instruction and an introduction to competition. Both groups practice from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. on Thursdays and from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m on Sundays. Two weekends out of the season will include scheduled games at the Eagle Ice Rink. Equipment rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Costs are $150 for one season or $250 for both seasons.
Introduction to Girls’ Youth Hockey
Oct. 2 to Dec. 18 and Jan. 8 to Mar. 13
The first-of-its-kind to be offered in the Vail Valley, the Introduction to Girls’ Hockey Program is a pioneer in girls’ development programs. Designed to encourage interest and confidence in the sport for both novice skaters and those with experience, it is available for girls in kindergarten through fourth grade. Practice take place from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. The cost is $150. Rental equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Storytime Skating
10 and 11 a.m. on Wednesdays
This fun program for preschoolers combines story hour at the Vail Public Library, followed by a trip across the street for free skating time at Dobson Arena. $10 per participant includes skate rental.
In addition to classes, Dobson Ice Arena also offers adult ice hockey leagues, public skating, stick and puck sessions and events. For more information or to register, click here or call 970-479-2271.