Profile
Little Blackhawks is the official Learn to Play hockey program presented by the Chicago Blackhawks and developed in partnership with the NHL and NHLPA. The program offers first-time participants between ages 4-9 a comprehensive introduction to ice hockey through 6-8 weeks of lessons at local ice rinks throughout the Chicago area. This initiative represents a collaboration between the NHL, NHL Players’ Association, USA Hockey, and Hockey Canada to provide the gold standard for youth hockey programs.
The program includes a complete set of brand-new hockey equipment for each participant to keep, including a Chicago Blackhawks Learn to Play jersey, shoulder pads, gloves, elbow pads, helmet, shin guards, pants, hockey skates, hockey socks, hockey stick, and an equipment bag. Participants receive age-appropriate instruction from certified coaches, including NHL Alumni, in a fun and safe atmosphere designed to teach fundamental hockey skills while building character traits like responsibility, respect, and teamwork.
Each registration includes weekly lessons led by local rink staff and coaches, plus a special ticket offer to a Chicago Blackhawks home game during the season. The program is exclusively for first-time hockey players who have not previously participated in Little Blackhawks or played on a team. It is highly recommended that participants complete a Learn to Skate program before starting Little Blackhawks. Sessions are held at various partner rink locations throughout the Chicago area.
