Novi Ice Arena

FAQs

Q: How do I move into private lessons from Learn to Skate?

A: Many skaters start taking private lessons to help them progress in the classes, while others start taking private lessons because the wish to compete. Private lessons are available to skaters at any level, and can be arranged by contacting the figure skating director at 248-347-1010.

Q: What age is recommended to start learning to skate?

A: Learn to Skate classes are available for skaters age 3 and older. Three year-olds are in classes with their parents. Skaters age 4 and older can go into the Snowplow Sam series by themselves.

Q: Do double blades help with learning?

A: Double runner skates are not recommended!! The balance is not the same.

Q: How do I get my child started to learn to play hockey?

A: Skating is the foundation on which all other skills are built, so it is very important that players have a basic command of skating skills to register for a hockey class. Skating in hockey equipment is also quite different than skating without it. The more skating experience a player has, the more that they will benefit from the class. Learn to Skate classes offered here at Novi Ice Arena are an excellent first step to skating proficiency. We recommend that skaters age 5 and under take the Snowplow Sam Series of the Learn to Skate program, and at least Basic 1 through Basic 3 if age 6 or older before starting to play hockey. The next step is the Suburban FUNdamental Hockey program at Suburban Ice-Farmington Hills. This is the initiation program for the Novi Youth Hockey Association.

Q: How do I know which age division my player is in?
A: USA Hockey age classifications are followed for most classes. Mini mites are 5-6, mites are 6-8, squirts are 9-10, pee wees are 11-12, bantams are 13-14 and midgets are 15-17. The calendar year is used to determine age. For instance, a player turning 9 on January 1 would be considered a first year squirt, as would a player turning 9 on December 31 of the same year. For all classes beginning after March 1, we recommend registering your player for the age group that they will be in beginning for the next regular season. For all classes prior to that time, we recommend registering for the age group they are currently in.

Q: What is an IMR?
A: An IMR is an Individual Membership Registration issued by USA Hockey. This is a form that needs to be filled out annually for a fee of $30 to register a player with USA Hockey. If you filled out a form in the fall, it will be valid through the spring hockey season.

Q: How do I find out what locker room I am in?
A: There is a TV screen in the lobby. It will tell you which rink your team is skating on (Red or Blue) and which locker room you are in.

Q: What does full hockey equipment consist of?
A: Full hockey equipment includes helmet with facemask, throat protector, mouthguard, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, jersey, hockey pants, shin guards, athletic cup and supporter, garter belt, hockey socks, jersey, skates and stick. We recommend that players bring an extra stick and keep extra laces and hockey tape in their bag.

Q: How can I become a referee?
A: Go to www.maha.org for information on becoming a referee.