BTI Session 2 starts on Sunday (1/28) at 11:10AM – 12:10PM at Family Ice Center in Falmouth

Register now before space runs out @ https://cascoyh.sportngin.com/register/form/928931114

If you are interested in this program, please read the information below and email the director if you have additional questions.

Registration is on a first come first serve basis. Once the program is at capacity, we will no longer accept skaters.

Wondering if LTP or BTI is right for you?

Any 4-6 year old with little or no hockey experience is welcome at BTI.  A 5 or 6 year old that skates well independently, and has some experience can opt for either the BTI or LTP program at parent's discretion.  Please read each program description and make a choice based on where you think your child will be most successful.  If it becomes clear that a child is in the incorrect program once the season starts, we can work together to make a change to ensure that the child is in the program that best fits his or her needs!

BREAK THE ICE (BTI) is designed provide a fun atmosphere for teaching new skaters basic hockey fundamentals through a series of drills and rotating stations.  Each session will run for 10 weeks.

The BTI program is built upon the USA Hockey American Development Model (ADM), which is designed for larger groups of players on the ice, with more “stations” (skill-building centers), more movement in each station and less waiting around.

BTI is the first step for younger players, typically between the ages of 4-6, that are new to ice hockey and are (mostly) able to stand up on skates. For those having difficulty standing up on skates for the first few weeks, we will have orange sleds available for them to push around on the ice. Our goal is to be “sled-free” by the mid-way point of the first session. 

If you have any other questions regarding the BTI program please email Casco Bay Hockey Academy Director, Joseph Guerriero.

Commonly used acronyms in Casco Bay Hockey Association:
FIC/FFIC: Family Ice Center in Falmouth
CBA: Casco Bay Arena in Falmouth
NYA: Travis Roy Arena in Yarmouth
TIA: Trooubh Ice Arena in Portland 
LTP: Learn to Play
BTI: Break the Ice
CBHA/ CB Academy: Casco Bay Hockey Academy - both LTP and BTI programs
TA: Team Administrator - a volunteer parent who will be at the rink helping the program director and coaches with tasks including fundraisers and apparel.  

AGES

4 and up.

SKILL LEVEL

New to ice hockey

EQUIPMENT

A Casco Bay Hockey player jersey will be provided to all skaters at their first practice. 

Selection of hockey equipment is a key issue for players, parents and coaches. When purchasing and fitting hockey equipment, remember two important factors: 1) make certain the player is adequately protected and 2) be sure the fitting allows freedom of movement so the player can properly perform the necessary skills. By carefully considering these two factors, your child will be more comfortable and will better enjoy their participation.

The following equipment is required:

Equipment bag - to carry all of the equipment below!

Stick - Can be either wood or composite material. Top of stick should align with skaters chin when standing on skates (nose in sneakers) and blade on ground.

Skates – Purchase skates that will fit your child today with no more than ½” allowed for growth. Seek adequate protection in the ankle, toe and instep areas, improperly fitted skates will hamper your child’s ability to skate.

Helmet – Must be of a design and construction approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC). Must be sized at the time of purchase to fit properly. A proper fitting helmet has THREE (3) buckles that properly snap.  Any color helmet is acceptable.

Facemask – Must be of a design and construction approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC).

Mouthpiece – Required for all players at practices and games.

Neckguard - wrapped around neck to protect from sticks, pucks and skate blades. Recommended by Casco Bay hockey.

Shin Pads – Check for proper lengths so they protect the knee and skin completely.

Hockey Socks - cover up the shin pads and are held up by either garter belt or velcro on hockey underwear/ cup. Any color is acceptable.

Supporter and Cup – Essential protective equipment.

Gloves – Check for proper fit with good finger and hand mobility.

Shoulder Pads/ Chest Protector – Adjust to fit the individual at the time of purchase. A fiber cap is extremely important in preventing shoulder separations and should extend to the tip of the shoulder.

Pants – Held in proper position by suspenders or belt. Pants provide protection for the kidneys, lower spine, hips, and thighs.

Elbow Pads – Properly fitted so they do not slide and fit inside the chest pad and gloves.

COACHING

The success of our programs would not be possible without our volunteer coaches.  Parents with hockey backgrounds (as well as those without but who can skate and have a general understanding of the game) are strongly encouraged to help out on the ice. Please visit the coaches corner @ https://www.cascobayhockey.com/coaches-corner for more info on volunteering your time and skill on the ice.