NJ Devils Teaching Kids How To Play At Van Saun Park

PARAMUS, NJ – First-time youth hockey players can learn from the pros this winter when the New Jersey Devils bring the National Hockey League's "Learn to Play" program to Van Saun Park.

Starting Jan. 10, kids between five and 9 years old can receive on-ice sessions run by USA Hockey certified coaches, as well as New Jersey Devils alumni, such as Bruce Driver, Colin White and Grant Marshall.

The lessons are part of a "Learn to Play" league-wide initiative run by many other National Hockey League clubs across the country that aim to introduce kids to the sport in a fun and safe environment.

Besides being taught about passing and stick handling, youngsters will learn about the importance of responsibility, respect and teamwork, which are skills they'll need to succeed both on and off the ice, according to the program.

Since the New Jersey Devils began offering the program four years ago, locations have been added across the state, including at rinks in Farmingdale, Woodbridge, Bridgewater, Toms River, Randolph, Princeton, Roselle, Newark and Montclair.

This winter marks the debut of "Learn to Play" at Van Saun Park's ice rink. Sessions will be held Jan. 10, Jan. 17, Jan. 24, Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14 and Feb. 21 and will run from 7 to 7:50 p.m.

Advance registration and a $200 fee are required. The program is open to children born between Jan. 10, 2010 and Jan. 10, 2015.

Click here to register.

The registration fee includes the following gear:

• Ice Hockey Helmet with a cage
• Shoulder pads
• Elbow pads
• Hockey gloves
• Hockey pants
• Shin guards
• Skates
• Jersey
• Socks
• Stick
• Equipment bag

What Else To Know

• This program is designed for first-time players only.
• If your child does not know how to skate, it is recommended he or she takes a "Learn to Skate" class at a local rink.
• Participants must register online. Phone and/or in-person registration at individual rinks will not be accepted.