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NHL/NHLPA First Shift
An intro hockey program for kids

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift program is designed to ensure a positive experience for new-to-hockey families by offering a low-cost entry program to hockey.

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift program aims to make hockey

Child playing hockey

Accessible

Open to all Canadian children between the ages of 6 and 10 years old that have never previously been registered in minor hockey. On-ice sessions with fun drills are always on the same day of the week, same time and same arena.

Three girls with hockey gear

Affordable

$299 registration fee that includes a full set of BAUER equipment and six on-ice trial sessions.

Girl in hockey gear smiling

Safe

Proper-sized BAUER equipment fitted by NHL/NHLPA First Shift fit experts and Hockey Canada-provided insurance

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Fun

Hockey Canada on-ice curriculum with drills focused on fun range hockey experiences to stimulate a desire for continued participation in hockey.

We offer a variety of programs, including:

Boy playing hockey

Bipoc
Programs

Programs hosted with communities leaders with the goal of making hockey accessible to everyone.

Young hockey playing smiling

Coed
Programs

Programs in which children of all gender share the ice together and develop new friendships.

Young hockey playing smiling

Girls
Programs

Programs designed specifically for girls and hosted by Female Hockey Associations.

Hockey players on ice

Para
Hockey

Programs hosted by local Para Hockey Clubs facilitating the introduction of the game to children with a physical disability in the lower part of the body.

How to register your child in the
NHL/NHLPA First Shift

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift is open to boys and girls, between the ages of 6 and 10 year old, who have never previously enrolled in minor hockey within Canada

Welcome Event

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift kicks off with a welcome event which is our opportunity to welcome you into our hockey community.

During the welcome event, we will be introduce you and your child to the local program administrators, and coaches, provide an overview of the 6-week program, and offer important information about proper fit and maintenance of equipment.

Team of young hockey players

On-Ice Sessions

  • Six on-ice sessions designed with fun drills and great instructors.
  • Sessions are always on the same day of the week, same time and same arena.
  • Participants will move at their own pace, through fundamental skating and hockey skills.
  • On-ice sessions allow kids time to build confidence and improve in order to experience a sense of achievement.

Find a first Shift program near you

Partners