Stick & Puck

Unstructured practice ice where sticks and pucks are allowed.

What it is

Open practice time for hockey players — no games, no coaches running drills, just ice to work on whatever you want: skating, shooting, stickhandling, passing with a parent. The 'hidden gem' of extra ice time.

Who it's for

Players who can already skate independently. Great for a parent and kid to get extra touches cheaply ($10–20). Age rules vary a lot — some sessions are all ages, some split youth/adult.

Instruction

None — it's independent practice. Some rinks allow private coaches to run lessons during stick & puck (ask first; some charge a coaching fee).

Equipment

Full equipment usually required for kids (helmet with cage, gloves, shin guards minimum — many rinks require full gear). Adults often just helmet and gloves. Bring your own pucks at some rinks.

Access & cost

Usually drop-in or same-day registration. Capacity is often capped (first-come or sign-up), so arrive early for popular times.

Confirm before you go

Equipment requirements for your child's age
Whether parents can be on the ice, and whether they need gear
Whether goalies are allowed/free
Age split rules (some ban under-8s or mix all ages)

🔥 Flame guide: Walk-on ice carries no flame, but it does assume ability: your child should skate confidently before joining — a crowded stick & puck is no place to learn to stand up.

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