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The Nelson Center Ice Rink offers a variety of ice programs designed for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skaters. Whether you're interested in learning to skate, joining a hockey league, or enjoying public skating sessions, our programs provide a fun and supportive environment to develop your skills on the ice. With expert instruction, competitive opportunities, and recreational activities, the Nelson Center is the perfect place to experience the thrill of ice skating year-round!

(6U & 8U) Rec. Hockey League 

Description 

Our goal is to make practices fun and engaging while providing each player with the confidence and direction they need to develop necessary skills through a balanced curriculum of hockey drills and activities. 

Mini-Mite & Mite Hockey is a recreational league instructed and co-sponsored by the Springfield Park District and the Springfield Youth Hockey Association (SYHA) that is designed for players who have successfully completed our Learn to Play Hockey program.

*Players must provide their own equipment. 

Registration deadline is Wednesday October 2nd.

Location: Nelson Center   

REGISTER

Learn to Play Hockey 

Description 

Learn to Play Hockey is the perfect next step for young athletes ready to bring their skating skills into the exciting world of hockey. This program introduces the fundamentals of the sport in a fun, encouraging, and safety-focused environment. Players build confidence as they learn essential skills such as balance and edge control, puck handling, passing, shooting, and on-ice awareness—taught through age-appropriate instruction and engaging drills.
Our experienced coaches guide participants step-by-step, helping them develop coordination, teamwork, and a love for the game. The program emphasizes enjoyment, sportsmanship, and steady skill progression to prepare skaters for future league play.

Prerequisite: All participants must pass Skating for Hockey or Basic 1 before enrolling in Learn to Play Hockey. This ensures every player begins the program with the foundational skating skills necessary for success and safety on the ice.

Skates are available for use at our Skate Rental in Rink 2

Need Ice Hockey Equipment? Thank you to Gonzo's Legacy: The Zack Defreitas Project for offering FREE Ice Hockey Equipment to anyone who signs up!

Enrollment numbers are limited.

*Dates and Times are subject to change

Location: Nelson Center   

REGISTER

Skating for Hockey

Description 

The Springfield Park District's Skating for Hockey program emphasizes the fundamentals of ice skating for first-time hockey players. Figure Skating and Hockey are very skilled sports and development of these skills instills a sense of accomplishment and confidence in all individuals. 

Skating for Hockey are for those interested in Hockey and not old enough for Basic 1 or Learn to Play Hockey

Need Ice Hockey Equipment? Thank you to Gonzo's Legacy: The Zack Defreitas Project for offering FREE Ice Hockey Equipment to anyone who signs up!

Enrollment numbers are limited.

*Dates and Times are subject to change

Location: Nelson Center   

REGISTER

Learn to Skate - Snowplows

Description 

Snowplow is perfect for brand-new skaters taking their first steps on the ice. This class focuses on helping young children feel comfortable, safe, and confident as they learn how to stand, balance, and move on their skates. 

Enrollment numbers are limited.

*Dates and Times are subject to change

Location: Nelson Center   

REGISTER