The Valley Youth Hockey Association (VYHA) Recreational Hockey Program (aka “First Goals”) is entering its seventh season and is again offering players in the Syracuse area a low cost - no travel - low commitment hockey alternative. First Goals focuses on teaching basic hockey skills and sportsmanship in a no check, low-pressure environment that fosters a love of hockey. Players with limited hockey experience are welcomed!

First Goals is an in-house recreational hockey program for boys and girls aged 9-12 (but an 8 or 13 year old could be considered) who are not involved in travel leagues (First Goals players cannot be on an existing travel hockey team). Recreational hockey is non-competitive and emphasizes fun along with learning valuable hockey skills. Since its inception in 2015, the First Goals program has been a very helpful starting point for many kids who have gone on to play organized hockey at higher levels (Snowbelt league, Travel, and High School hockey as well as Referring hockey too). The First Goals program is an ideal program for those kids who either want to start hockey or for youth who still want to be involved in the sport.

First Goals unique approach to hockey provides players the opportunity to pursue other sports or activities in the winter and allows players to play with their friends with the goal of maximizing each player’s experience and limiting travel. First Goals will meet one night a week (Wednesdays @ Meachem Ice Rink @ 5:00 PM) with a skill session followed by pond hockey style-of-play (with coaching opportunities handled throughout). The program will hit the ice in December and run into the middle of March.

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2021-2022 SEASON IS OPEN

Prior to registering, we encourage everyone to view our eligibility information.

• 2021-22 SEASON: December – March (see dates below)

• December: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
• January: 5, 12, 19, 26
• February: 2, 9, (16 & 23 holidays - possible ice TBD)
• March: 2, 9 (16 & 23 - possible ice TBD)

• ICE TIME: 1 x per week on Wednesday @ 5:00 PM (please have players arrive a early to get suited up). Occasional start time changes will be announced through the Sports Engine App (only those registered with the program receive these notifications)

• EQUIPMENT: All children are required to wear full equipment (VYHA may have some equipment that can be loaned, however participants need to plan on having their own equipment, including sticks. Ice skates can be rented at the rink if needed).

• FEES: $100 registration (full season) to VYHA (prorated $50 registration for half season after January 1). In addition, all players are required to be registered with USA Hockey

• TIME & LOCATION: Wednesdays at Meachem Ice Rink @ 5:00 PM

• GOAL: To have fun, improve on skills, and enjoy the great game of hockey!

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Questions? Please email me at anytime

Travis Hayden (First Goals Coach) – thaydenhockey@gmail