New to Hockey

Your First Steps in Hockey

A simple guide for families learning about beginner skating, introductory hockey programs, Great Valley school hockey, officiating, registration, equipment, and what happens next.

Hockey Can Feel Confusing at First

That is normal. Some children are already playing club hockey, while others have never worn skates or picked up a hockey stick. The right starting point depends on your child’s skating ability, hockey experience, grade level, and readiness for a team environment.

No Experience?

Begin with the Right First Step

Children with no skating or hockey experience do not need to begin by joining a school team. Starting with an introductory rink program helps players build confidence, learn safely, and develop the skills needed before entering organized hockey.

The progression is simple: begin with Learn to Skate when a child is not yet comfortable on the ice, move into Learn to Play for introductory hockey instruction, and then consider GVP school hockey when the player is ready for a team.

1

Never Skated?

Start with Learn to Skate USA. These programs teach the foundational skills needed to become comfortable and confident on the ice.

Find Skating Lessons →
2

New to Hockey?

The NHL/NHLPA Learn to Play program introduces first-time players to hockey skills, equipment, and structured on-ice instruction.

Find Learn to Play →
3

Ready for a Team?

Once a player has basic skating and hockey skills, review the GVP school program that matches the player’s grade.

View GVP Programs →

GVP School Hockey

Ready for School Hockey?

Great Valley Ice Hockey organizes players by school grade. Select the appropriate program below to review the level, expectations, and current program information.

Elementary

Grades K–4. A welcoming school hockey experience for younger players who are ready to join the Great Valley program.

Elementary Info →

Middle School

Grades 5–8. A balanced developmental and competitive experience preparing players for high school hockey.

Middle School Info →

High School

Grades 9–12. Competitive scholastic hockey for student-athletes representing Great Valley.

High School Info →

Another Way to Participate

Interested in Officiating?

Some young people enjoy refereeing in addition to playing, while others choose officiating as their primary way to remain involved in hockey. Officiating helps develop rule knowledge, communication, confidence, judgment, and responsibility.

USA Hockey manages official registration and education. Officiating requirements are separate from GVP player registration and must be completed before working USA Hockey sanctioned games.

Learn How to Become an Official →
Play, Officiate, or Both Players may pursue officiating while continuing to play, or participate in hockey primarily as an official.
Complete USA Hockey Requirements Officials must complete the current season’s registration, seminar, and applicable education requirements.
Connect with a Local Assignor Game opportunities are coordinated through local officials organizations, supervisors, and game assignors.

Joining a GVP Team

For families choosing Great Valley school hockey, the remaining registration and communication process is straightforward.

1

Review Registration

Visit the Registration page for current program availability, season details, and official TeamSnap registration links.

2

Join TeamSnap

TeamSnap is used for registration, schedules, attendance, payments, team communication, and last-minute updates.

3

Watch for Updates

Coaches and team managers will share finalized schedules, expectations, meeting information, and other team details.

Basic Equipment

Equipment requirements can vary by age, league rules, and player position. Confirm requirements before purchasing equipment.

  • Helmet with cage or full-face protection
  • Shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, and hockey pants
  • Shin guards, skates, stick, and hockey socks
  • Neck guard and mouthguard when required
  • Goalie equipment for players registering as goalies

Club Hockey vs. School Hockey

Many players participate in both club hockey and school hockey. School hockey gives players an opportunity to represent their school community and compete alongside classmates.

Schedules and team commitments vary by program level, so families should review expectations once teams and schedules are finalized.

FAQs

New Family Questions

Where should a completely new player begin?

A child who has never skated should begin with Learn to Skate. A child with basic skating ability who is completely new to hockey may be a good fit for Learn to Play. Once the player has foundational skating and hockey skills, the family can explore the appropriate GVP school program.

Can players participate in club hockey and school hockey?

Many players participate in both. Families should review scheduling and commitment expectations once team details are confirmed.

Can a player also become an official?

Yes. Some players referee while continuing to play, and others choose officiating as another way to participate in hockey. USA Hockey official registration and training are separate from GVP player registration.

What if I am unsure which GVP program applies?

GVP program placement is based primarily on grade level. Contact the club with your player’s grade, skating experience, and hockey background for guidance before registration.

Next Steps

Ready to Get Started?

Review current GVP registration information or contact the club with your player’s grade level, skating experience, and hockey background.

Registration → Contact Us →