The Valley Youth Hockey Association (VYHA) Recreational Hockey Program (aka “First Goals”) is entering its TENTH 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 and growing a players confidence 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 (House league, Travel hockey, High School hockey, College Club hockey as well as Refereeing hockey too). In addition, many of our children's parents have gone on to volunteer for VYHA as an Assistant Coach, Head Coach, Committee member, or Board member of the organization. The First Goals program is an ideal program for those kids who either want to start hockey or for youth who still want to stay 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 @ 5:15 PM) with a skill session followed by pond hockey style-of-play (with coaching opportunities handled throughout). Additional optional VYHA skating clinic opportunities are available (age/skill level appropriate) to First Goals players – this is an added benefit of the VYHA membership. The First Goals program hits the ice in October and runs into the middle of March.

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2024-2025 SEASON IS OPEN

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

• 2024-25 SEASON: October – March (see dates below)

• October 23, 30
• November 6, 13, 20, 27
• December: 4, 11, 18 (Dec 25 and Jan 1 are holidays – no ice)
• January: 8, 15, 22, 29
• February: 5, 12, (19 holiday - possible ice TBD), 26
• March: 5, 12 (19 & 26 - possible ice TBD)

• ICE TIME: 1 x per week on Wednesday @ 5:15 PM (please have players arrive early to get suited up).

• 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 @ 5:15 PM

• GOAL: To have fun 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 (315 663 4147)