Cool: Free Kids Ice Hockey, Skating Programs At Ralph Walker Ice Rink

NEW HAVEN, CT — City, school officials and Albertus Magnus College ice hockey coaches and student-athletes gathered Friday to highlight several free learn-to-skate and learn-to-play hockey programs for New Haven kids at Ralph Walker Ice Rink. The program is a collaboration between the city, Albertus Magnus, and other partners.

So far this winter, over 350 students registered for the free programs, including over 200 students in a learn-to-skate program offered to middle schoolers through New Haven Public Schools' Project Pride program. Another 140 students registered in two different learn-to-play hockey programs offered through the New Haven Youth and Recreation Department and the New Haven Police Activity League, PAL.

Coaches and student-athletes from the Albertus Magnus College men’s and women’s ice hockey programs provide instruction and assistance during the sessions and practices, along with volunteers from the New Haven Firefighters hockey team, according to Mayor Justin Elicker.

In the below media event celebrating the programs, Learn-to-Play and Learn-to-Skate sessions were underway.

This is the latest in the ongoing efforts to increase access to the ice rink for the New Haven community and to expand opportunities around the sports of ice hockey and ice skating to city students and residents, including over $5 million in renovations and investments for Ralph Walker Ice Rink in recent years, according to the Mayor's Office.

The Ralph Walker Ice Rink also serves as the home rink for Albertus Magnus College Falcons, which launched its men’s ice hockey program in the 2019-20 season and launched its women’s ice hockey program this 2023-24 season. In addition, daily open skate sessions are offered with discounted rates for New Haven residents.