WBIA Youth Hockey
Willowbrook Ice Arena has a stepped approach to Youth Hockey. First, we instill proper skating techniques in our Learn to Skate program where novice skaters learn the foundational footwork critical to the success in hockey. Once skaters pass Learn to Skate Basic 3, they may enter Intro to Hockey where players learn to move with a stick and puck. Participants of Intro to Hockey (or a comparable program at another rink) may join Youth Hockey Skating Skills which focuses on building on foundational skating skills necessary to be a skilled hockey player.
Evaluations: If your child has not attended our Learn to Skate program, please call 630-581-5044 to determine which class is best for your child.
PROGRAMS AVAILABLE:
Learn to Skate
Players with no or limited skating experience will be placed in the Learn to Skate program. The focus of this program is to build a confident skater with proper foundational techniques necessary to be a talented hockey player. Learn to Skate participants will not use hockey sticks on the ice. The focus is 100% on learning to skate and proper use of edges. Hockey equipment is optional, but a helmet is recommended.
Intro to Hockey
Players must be able to competently perform Basic Skills Level 3 Learn to Skate techniques. Intro to Hockey classes will instill mechanics for the proper handling of a hockey stick and puck, and the building of skating skills that aid the player in changing direction on the ice.
Required Equipment - Hockey Skates, Helmet, Shin Guards, Shoulder Pads, Elbow Pads and a Hockey Stick cut to the proper length
Youth Hockey Skating Skills
This class is for those enrolled in Intro to Hockey Program at Willowbrook Ice Arena or a comparable program at another rink. This class meets once per week for 60 minutes. Players will focus on improving their skating skills forwards, backwards and stopping. The class will also begin to introduce the concepts and rules of the game of hockey via scrimmages. Full gear is required.
Required Equipment – Hockey Skates, Helmet, Shoulder Pads, Shin Guards, Elbow Pads, Hockey Pants, Hockey Stick
Refund Policy: Should a client decide after completion of ONE class they would like to drop from the session, a pro-rated refund will be granted. A $20 processing fee will be charged. After two classes have been attended, NO refunds will be given. After the third class of the session is offered, NO refunds will be given for any reason.
Hockey Director: Pat Rooney will be on the ice coaching the Intro to Hockey class beginning in September 2025. Coach Rooney has decades of experience on the ice both as a player and coach. He was a Level 4 Coach for 20 years with the Huskies and Chicago Hawks Hockey Clubs. He brings with him the ability to foster the love of the game in players of all levels from Learn to Skate through college while teaching the skills necessary for success on the ice.
