Learn To Skate > Learn To Play > Intro to Hockey > Mites to Midgets

Every hockey journey looks a little different. Whether your child is brand new to skating or ready for the next challenge, we make the path from Learn to Skate to Learn to Play and Blades hockey clear, comfortable, and family-friendly.

Where confidence is built, friendships begin, and kids fall in love with the ice.

Our Learn to Skate program introduces children ages 4–16 to ice skating in a fun, welcoming, and pressure-free environment where confidence comes first. Entirely volunteer-run and led by Blades players and coaches, the program feels like family from the moment skaters step on the ice. Using bubbles, games, music, and creative drills, we help kids build balance, coordination, and confidence at their own pace — all while having fun. No prior skating experience is required, and nervous beginners are always welcome.

For many families, Learn to Skate is the start of their hockey journey with the Blades. This program serves as a natural gateway to our Learn to Play and youth hockey programs, offering a clear, supportive pathway as children grow. With an emphasis on fun, fundamentals, and encouragement — never pressure — we guide families every step of the way and help each child develop a positive, lifelong love of the ice

Our Learn to Play Hockey program is the natural next step for skaters in Salem, Swampscott, and the surrounding North Shore communities who are ready to turn their skating skills into hockey fundamentals. Designed for beginners, this youth learn to play program introduces basic puck handling, passing, shooting, and game awareness in a fun, age-appropriate setting. Led by volunteer coaches and Blades players, the program follows the American Development Model (ADM) and emphasizes confidence, teamwork, and fun in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Many families from Salem, Swampscott, Marblehead, Beverly, and Peabody move seamlessly from Learn to Skate into Learn to Play, creating a clear and welcoming pathway into our Blades youth hockey teams.

Mites (Ages 4–8)

Mite hockey is often a child’s first experience playing organized hockey. At this level, the focus is on learning basic skating and puck skills through fun, small-area games. Practices emphasize movement, balance, and coordination, with minimal structure and lots of encouragement. Mite hockey is designed to be fun, energetic, and pressure-free, helping kids fall in love with the game.

Squirts (Ages 9–10)

Squirt hockey builds on the fundamentals learned at the Mite level. Players begin developing stronger skating skills, puck control, passing, and shooting while learning basic team concepts. Games become more structured, but the emphasis remains on development, effort, and sportsmanship rather than competition.

Peewees (Ages 11–12)

At the Peewee level, players continue to refine their individual skills while learning more advanced team play. Practices focus on skating speed, positioning, puck movement, and game awareness. Players also begin learning responsibility, teamwork, and how to compete in a positive, respectful environment.

Bantams (Ages 13–14)

Bantam hockey introduces a faster pace and more physical awareness as players grow and mature. Skill development, conditioning, and hockey IQ become increasingly important. Coaches emphasize proper technique, respect for the game, and safe play while continuing to support individual growth and confidence.

Midgets (Ages 15–16) 

Midget hockey prepares players for the next stages of their hockey journey, whether that’s high school hockey, recreational play, or simply enjoying the game long-term. Players focus on advanced skill development, leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The goal at this level is to help athletes become confident, well-rounded players who understand the game and enjoy being part of a team.