In-House & Learn To Play

Yale Youth Hockey Association

Learn to Play Hockey and House Programs

Director: Jon Bellonio

Jon Bellonio is our LTS Director and coach and director for the Junior Bulldogs Midget Progam , serving as a coach of the U-16 Tier 1 Split Season team. Coach Bellonio has extensive experience throughout prep, junior, and college hockey. From 2011-2014, Bellonio spent three years as an assistant coach at Wesleyan College. Prior to joining the Cardinals, Coach Bellonio spent time in the United States Hockey League as a coach for the Lincoln Stars. He also coached in the EJHL with the Philadelphia Revolution and began his career as an Assistant Coach at South Kent Prep School.

Jon has a exceptional of experience all levels and will do does remarkable job connecting with, developing, and motivating our players to help them reach their full potential on and off the ice.

Yale Youth Hockey Learn to Play Summary

At Yale Youth Hockey Learn to Play Hockey teaches the fundamentals of the game. It is designed for the most novice of players. Learn to Play uses the guidance of the USA Hockey ADM model, which encourages station based drills with smaller groups. Our team of Learn to Play coaches help young hockey players develop all while learning to love the game.

Where: Northford Ice Pavilion

When: Saturday and Sunday mornings

Ages: Starting at 3 years old

Equipment Required for Learn to Play

Selection of hockey equipment is an important issue for players, parents and coaches. When purchasing and fitting hockey equipment, remember two important factors:

1. Ensure the player is adequately protected

2. Ensure the fitting allows freedom of movement so the player can properly perform the necessary skills. This will allow your child to be more comfortable on the ice and enjoy playing hockey.

A complete set of hockey equipment can be purchased at a reasonable cost. Most hockey shops have New and Used Equipment packages. Recommended hockey shop is Hamden Sports Center in Hamden, CT. with experienced professionals to assist you in selecting the correct equipment for your child.

Skates: Purchase skates that will fit your child today, with no more than 1/2” allowed for growth and with adequate protection in the ankle, toe and instep areas. Improperly fitted skates will hamper your child’s ability to skate. Sharpen skates following approximately 10 hours skating.

Helmet: Ensure a proper fit. The chin strap must always be fastened. The helmet must be of approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC).

Facemask: The facemask must be approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC).

Mouthpiece: A mouthpiece is not required for Learn to Skate / Clinic players. A mouthpiece is required for House and/or Travel team players.

Stick: Stick length should generally extend from the ice to the player’s chin (with skates on).

Shin Pads: Ensure shin pads protect the knee and shin completely.

Supporter and Cup or Jill: Essential protective equipment.

Gloves: Ensure proper fit with good finger and hand mobility.

Shoulder Pads: Ensure proper fit.

Pants: Ensure proper fit. Pants provide protection for the lower spine, hips and thighs.

Elbow Pads: Ensure proper fit.

Yale Youth Hockey House Program

House is the next stage of the Yale Youth Development Program. House is designed for players that already have a hockey base; skating, stickhandling, shooting etc. House also uses the guidance of the USA Hockey ADM model, which encourages station base drills with smaller groups. During the House season the players will also start to play controlled cross ice games.

Where: Northford Ice Pavilion

When: Saturday and Sunday mornings and one weeknight skills session

Ages: 5-10 years old

Equipment Required for House

Selection of hockey equipment is an important issue for players, parents and coaches. When purchasing and fitting hockey equipment, remember two important factors:

1. Ensure the player is adequately protected and