Considering Jackrabbits for your youngster?
Q. What is Jackrabbits hockey?
A. Jackrabbits is an outdoor-ice hockey program designed to teach skating and hockey skills in a fun, non-competitive environment. It is a "lighter" hockey program intended to introduce kids to hockey. Drills, relays, and scrimmage games form the core of the program. Jackrabbits is a family program. Parents are encouraged to lace up and come out on the ice with the children.
Jackrabbits is NOT a league or an individual team. Score is not kept during games.
Q. How old does my child have to be?
A. The program is open to boys and girls 5-8 years old (kindergarten to grade three).
Q. What's the time commitment?
A. The Jackrabbits are on the ice once a week. Every Saturday afternoon from 2:30-4:30 on the outdoor rinks of Roblin Park. Children are not obliged to attend for the full two hours - only as long as they are having fun. Children do not need to attend every week.
Q. We don't live in the Roblin Park catchment area. Can my child still participate?
A. Yes you can. However, Jackrabbits programs are offered at numerous other community centres in Winnipeg. We encourage you to participate at your local community centre if there is a program in your area.
Q. My child has never skated. Can we still participate?
A. Children must have at least basic skating ability. Jackrabbits is not a "learn to skate" program.
Q. When does the season start?
A. As soon as the outdoor ice is ready. Usually this is the first or second week in December. We continue until the ice melts. Usually mid-March.
Q. Is Jackrabbits canceled during cold weather?
A. Rarely. On very cold days, we take more warm-up breaks.
Q. How much does the program cost?
A. Just $70 per child. In addition, families are asked to volunteer for one shift of canteen duty.
Q. Does my child need full hockey equipment?
A. No. Skates, hockey stick, helmet with full cage and mitts or gloves are the minimum. Anything in addition is optional.
Full equipment is recommended, however.
Q. Who runs the program?
A. Jackrabbits is run by parent volunteers whose own children are also in the program. Jackrabbits is an autonomous program and is not affiliated with Minor Hockey or City of Winnipeg hockey programs.
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