Q. My child has never played ice hockey before, where do I start?
We recommend the following progression to get your child into the sport.
At what age can my child start skating and playing ice hockey?
Children can start skating as young as 3 or 4 depending on their development. Youth hockey begins for players at age 6.
My daughter is interested, can girls play ice hockey too?
Absolutely! Girls are welcome at all age levels and in all youth hockey programs.
Is hockey a violent sport where my child could get hurt?
Hockey is a physical game but youth hockey is a different game than the NHL. With a different set of rules in place, youth hockey places a stronger emphasis on sportsmanship and friendly competition. Contact is not allowed prior to the 14U (Bantam) level. At the 14U level checking is allowed but NO Fighting.
Do I need to buy any special equipment such as skates and a helmet?
Hockey skates are available to rent for use on the public sessions. Helmets are recommended for any budding hockey player. Helmets can be purchased through the Kennebec Skate shop at the rink or major sports stores.
When does the youth hockey season run?
The SAM hockey season runs October through late February. There are spring and summer hockey programs in place.
What gear is required for Skating Lessons or ATOMS?
A helmet and full gear is required for Learn To Play. Full hockey gear is not required for Learn to Skate.
How long are the practices?
Practices are typically 50 minutes in length. Ice time is very expensive, so players must be ready to go on the ice at the designated start time. It is usually best to be at the rink 30 minutes before your stated ice time in order to be ready on time.
Where do we practice and play home games?
Our home rink is the Camden National Bank Ice Vault on Whitten Road in Hallowell, Maine.
When are the practices/games?
Practices are usually during the week. Times vary depending on the level. Games are played on Saturdays and/or Sundays (A Friday game is possible during tournaments).
Do I have to be at every practice/game?
No. While it is beneficial and recommended to attend every possible practice and game for player development, it is not mandatory.
How are teams formed?
At the beginning of the season, the coaches assigned to the team level conduct an informal evaluation of players. Team are then developed based on player ability. SAM strives to ensure all teams are equitable and are of a similar caliber.
How many kids are on each team?
Typically, we strive to have between 12-15 players per team.
What equipment do I need?
Equipment required to participate include a helmet with facemask, mouth guard, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey pants, shin pads, hockey gloves, stick, skates and pelvic protection.
Where do I buy hockey equipment and how do I know how it should fit?
Most sporting goods store carry hockey equipment. As a general rule of thumb, all equipment should fit comfortably without being too big. Do not buy skates that are too big with plans to grow into them. Trying to skate with skates that are too big is similar with trying to sprint in shoes that are too big. Reach out to Mick in the Kennebec Skate Shop located in the ice rink for advice and equipment.
Isn’t hockey equipment really expensive? Are there cheaper options?
Hockey equipment can be costly, but new skaters do not need top of the line equipment. It is important to have good quality helmet and properly fitting pair of skates. The most important component of the remaining equipment is proper fit.
My child would like to try to play hockey, but we are concerned about the cost. Are there any options for financial assistance?
SAM has a scholarship programs available to families. Please visit our scholarship page for additional information.
When will I hear from a coach after I register?
Coaches and/or Team Managers will contact families once teams are formed. All information will be sent via an association newsletter and via the association Facebook page.
How do I receive communications from the coach or SAM?
You will receive communications via email. Please be sure to provide accurate information during registration to get appropriate information in a timely manner. Each teams practice schedule and game schedule is posted on the SAM website. Additionally, teams once developed, generally have their own team Facebook page to communicate with families.
What should I do if I want to coach?
Visit the SAM website to understand the steps necessary to become a coach.
My Child is not a very good skater, can he/she still play hockey?
Absolutely! This is a development program serving kids of various ages and abilities. We do recommend attending public skating and the Learn-To-Skate and Learn To Play Hockey sessions before and during the season.
Is there a New Parent Orientation?
There is a parent meeting for each level of play which takes place within the first couple of weeks during the season.
What do I need to do to register?
Early bird online registration begins July 1st using registration links on the association web page. Early Bird discounts require full payment. There are additional options for installment payments.
Are parents required to volunteer?
SAM operates solely on a volunteer basis. In order to provide quality programs and to create a positive, fun and safe environment for our players, we need help from every participating family.
If my player does not like hockey can I get a refund?
Registration and player fees are non-refundable.
I have other hockey related questions, who should I contact?
Contact information can be located on our contact page on the association web page.