(Updated 7-10-2023)

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Who is running the Sand Sharks Clinic? 
We're excited to be a part of the New York Rangers Learn to Play program.  Rangers alumni will lead the clinic in partnership with certified Shoreline Sharks coaches.  

Does my child need to know how to skate or play hockey?
Skating experience is recommended but not required. Our program is designed for participants at all skill levels. We expect a range of abilities and group the players on the ice during a session by skill level to ensure they are engaged, developing, and having fun.

What age does my child need to be to participate?
Our Sand Sharks program allows children as young as four years old to participate. Knowing their attention span, we always leave the door to the rink open should they need a break.

Girls 12+ should take a look at our Junior Sharks program, which is designed for players 12+ who want to try the sport and/or potentially play in high school.

Is this for girls only?
We are an all-girls hockey association.  Boys with a sibling in the Shoreline Sharks program are welcome to participate.  Please reach out to registrar@shorelinesharkshockey.com with questions. 

Will I be able to join a hockey team at the end of the clinic?
Many of our current travel players started in our hockey development program. Our clinic objective is for girls to transition to team play (and have fun, of course!).  At the end of the clinic, our coaches can provide an assessment of readiness for team play and recommendations for the next steps. 

Is there goalie training included in the clinic?
We don’t train goalies in this clinic or have goalies in the net during the drills.  We believe it is important to master the fundamentals before specializing in a position. If your daughter is interested in playing goalie, please let us know at registrar@shorelinesharkshockey.com.

Does my child have to join USA Hockey? 
First-time participants will receive a complimentary USA Hockey membership through the New York Rangers Learn to Play program. 

We require all clinic participants and coaches to have valid USA Hockey memberships to participate, as it provides our insurance.  The organization is a great resource for player information - from how to dress a hockey player to off-ice training ideas.  Additionally, USA Hockey drives coaching certification and SafeSport Training.  Here is a link to the membership benefits page. 

COACHING TEAM

Who are the instructors?
Our Learn to Play Clinic (Sand Sharks) is officially powered by the New York Rangers.   Rangers staff will lead the weekly clinic with the help of a team of certified Shoreline Sharks coaches.  

Are the coaches trained?
All of our adult coaches are certified annually through the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program. Additionally, they must pass a background screening and complete USA Hockey’s SafeSport Training.

I played hockey. Can I become a coach?
We appreciate and value parent coach volunteers. All coaches are required to submit a coaching application and have the appropriate certifications. Positions will be filled based on availability, experience, and overall fit. Fill out our coaching application and contact the Clinic Director for more information.

EQUIPMENT AND LOCKER ROOMS

Does everyone receive free equipment? 
First-time participants of the NY Rangers Learn to Play Clinic will receive head-to-toe equipment, including skates. 

How do I get the equipment? 
A fitting session will be held in August at a Pure Hockey location.  Once you register, you will receive the details. 

What if I register after the fitting date? 
If you register after the fitting session, you will receive instructions to order the equipment online (as well as fitting information).  Please note it takes two weeks for the equipment to be ordered and shipped.  

What equipment is needed to participate?
Equipment is an essential and necessary part of the sport, impacting comfort, performance, safety, and fun. 

Below is a list of the required equipment. It is complimentary for first-time participants (the estimated value is $400)  

Hockey Equipment List 
• helmet with cage
• gloves
• shoulder pads
• pants (padded hockey shorts)
• shin & elbow pads
• socks
• skates
• stick (straight blade for beginners)

What if I need additional equipment? 
Should you need additional equipment Bensen-Ferguson Hockey and Lacrosse in Orange and Hamden Sport Center (HSC), with locations in Northford and Hamden, can outfit players of all ages. Both retailers have knowledgeable staff members that can help with fit and ensure you have the appropriate (and most cost-effective) equipment. Please note the Northford HSC location only inventories new equipment.

Do these retailers offer discounts?
Bensen Ferguson offers a standardized starter-level package with new equipment for youth and juniors (no substitutions). They are also happy to create a custom package that incorporates a mix of new and used equipment that is priced based on choice and quality. Bensen Ferguson offers a 30-day return policy for USED equipment.  Click here to see the Bensen Ferguson flyer.

Hamden Sport Center (HSC) offers a percentage discount based on the amount of money spent on new or used equipment. Their used equipment is in the Hamden store.  Click here to see the HSC flyer. 

We are new to hockey; how do we dress our child?
This USA Hockey video: How to Dress a Hockey Player, provides an excellent overview! Additionally, the staff at HSC or Whitie Bensen can help.

Where do we put on the gear?
Each week, locker rooms are designated for the clinic (check the TV monitor on the way into the rink). Our locker room policies comply with USA Hockey SafeSport guidelines. 

Younger children should arrive mostly dressed, so they are just putting on pads, helmets, and skates at the rink. You are welcome to tie skates and put on shin and elbow pads in the lobby, inside the rink, or in the locker room.  Note: the locker room door must ALWAYS remain open.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

What time should I arrive at the rink?
Because we ALWAYS start and end on time (unless there is a rink issue), we suggest that you arrive 20 minutes early to allow time to tie their skates and finish dressing your child. We would hate for your child to miss any of the on-ice activities!

Who do I call if we are going to miss a session, and are there makeup sessions?
We use an online calendar system, and you will be notified electronically of each session allowing you to RSVP.  Please utilize this system. We do not hold makeup sessions. Skill development is cumulative, so try and attend as regularly as you can!

Can I run errands during the clinic?
We recommend LTP parents for younger children stay in the rink for the benefit of the child and to ensure it is a positive experience for all.

Can I go onto the ice if my child wants me?
Only certified coaches and registered players are allowed on the ice due to liability. The rink door will remain open should your child want or need to take a break. Those interested in coaching should contact the Clinic Manager.