Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand today announced that the Town has enhanced the experience for the 8U Youth Ice Hockey Program through the acquisition of ice rink dividers, which will be used in instructional and game settings to split the ice rink surface for the youth ice hockey program at the Town’s Ice Skating Center in Bethpage. Currently, the ice rink dividers, which were purchased utilizing a grant from the National Hockey League, are being solely employed in the 8 year old youth ice hockey division, but will be utilized more thoroughly as time progresses.
“The Town’s Youth Ice Hockey program has consistently been recognized as one of the best on Long Island, as kids who are enrolled are given the great opportunity to improve their skating and hockey skills as part of a program that has earned recognition by the National Hockey League for its high level of quality,” said Councilman Hand. “I want to thank the NHL, who serve an important role in fostering the sport of ice hockey in our Town through the ‘Try Hockey for Free’ program, for their generous grant which made the acquisition of these new ice rink dividers possible, and has led to a much more enjoyable experience for both the kids and instructors!”
Under the grant provided by the NHL, the Town received $3,500 towards the purchase of this equipment, which covered most of the cost. The ice rink dividers have currently been used extensively in the 8 year old ice hockey division, and have proven to be a huge hit with players, coaches, and parents alike, as these dividers greatly enhance the experience for all involved.
Registration for the Town’s 2020 Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program and House League began, and continues in person through Sunday, January 26th at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage. The program is open to girls and boys ages 3-16. Individuals interested in registering for the 2020 Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program must bring a copy of their birth certificate, proof of Town of Oyster Bay residency (tax or utility bill) as well as payment. Check, money order, MasterCard or Visa will be accepted. All registrants must bring these items, even if they have participated in the past. A parent or legal guardian must be present at registration.
Anyone unable to make in-person registration dates who would like to sign up for the program should please call Buzz Deschamps at (516) 433-7465, x8233. For more information regarding the Town’s Youth Ice Hockey and House League Program, contact the Department of Parks at (516) 797-4136.