Getting Started With Hockey
New To Hockey? Start Here
Whether you are brand new to hockey or looking to join a full season competitive team, we've got you covered!
Learn To Skate programming is offered by Holland Ice Arena.
STEP 1: TRY HOCKEY
Holland Ice Arena offers two entry-level programs for families looking to try hockey for the first time. These rink-run programs are designed for families to try hockey before joining the Ice Dogs. Note, these programs do NOT require USA Hockey Registration and do NOT require sign-ups with the Ice Dogs on this website.
Take A Shot At Hockey
This 6-week (30 min/week) program is FREE and includes FREE LOANER gear! Participant will need to come to an equipment fitting prior to the program to receive the gear.
*Following the program, participants may enroll in the following Little Wings Learn To Play Hockey program where they will receive Little Wings branded equipment at a low cost.
Little Wings
Next session is August 1 - September 12, 2026. A link will be available here soon.
STEP 2: Joining the Ice Dogs
DETERMINE YOUR CHILD'S AGE LEVEL
USA Hockey organizes players by birth year, not school grade. Here's how it works:
| Birth Years | Age Level | Traditional Name |
|---|---|---|
| 2020-2018 | 8U | Mites |
| 2017-2016 | 10U | Squirts |
| 2015-2014 | 12U | Pee Wees |
| 2013-2012 | 14U | Bantams |
| 2011-2008 | 16U/18U | Midgets |
If you're unsure where your child fits, we're happy to help.
CHOOSING A PROGRAM
Learn To Play (LTP)
Perfect for brand new hockey players, aged 4 - 11, with no hockey experience. Ideal for a player who has completed Learn-To-Skate programs, Little Wings, or Take A Shot At Hockey. Kids learn skating fundamentals, balance, and basic hockey skills in a fun, supportive environment.
8U Mites
This is the next step up from Learn To Play. This program enhances those hockey fundaments, while continuing to focus on fun. These players play cross-ice or half-ice scrimmage games against neighboring youth hockey programs. For an older player who is brand new to hockey, this may be an appropriate place to begin, depending on the player's skating ability. The coaches and hockey director will guide you in making this decision, and many players transition from LTP to 8U mid-season.
House Hockey
This begins at the 10U level and up. Players are on an official team, which practices together and plays games on weekends. No tryouts are required for house teams - simply sign up and play. Great for families who want low-pressure, lower-travel experience.
Travel Hockey
This is for players who are ready for a higher level of competition and engagement. Travel teams may practice more frequently, may play a few more games than house teams, and may extend some travel outside of West Michigan. Players attend try-outs for these teams.
Reach out to the hockey director for guidance in making the best choice for your player.
REGISTER WITH USA HOCKEY
All players in the Learn To Play, 8U Mites, House Hockey, and Travel Hockey MUST register with USA Hockey before registering with the West Michigan Ice Dogs. You will receive a USA Hockey registration confirmation number that is required during registration.
REGISTER WEST MICHIGAN ICE DOGS
All players in the Learn To Play, 8U Mites, House Hockey, and Travel Hockey will register for their respective program on the West Michigan Ice Dogs website.
Early registration is strongly encouraged.