A Summer Hockey Experience
The Town of Oyster Bay is set to welcome young aspiring hockey players this summer with a New York Islanders ‘Learn to Play’ clinic designed for children between five and nine years old. The eight‑session program, part of the broader Future Islanders initiative, aims to give kids their first taste of the sport in a structured, supportive environment.
Held at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage, the clinic runs on Wednesday evenings at 6:15 p.m. and Thursday mornings at 6:00 p.m., beginning August 5. Each session spans roughly one hour, providing a concise but intensive introduction to skating, puck handling and team play.
Community Partnership and Participation
Town Councilman Anthony Monteleone highlighted the collaboration with the Islanders as a “great opportunity” for local families, emphasizing the program’s role in transitioning first‑time players into organized hockey. Monteleone’s remarks underscore the town’s commitment to offering high‑quality recreational activities that foster both sport and community spirit.
The registration fee of $295 per child covers not only the eight weeks of instruction but also a full set of hockey equipment, removing a common barrier for newcomers. Space is limited, and enrollment is currently open, encouraging interested families to secure spots promptly.
Adding to the excitement, former Islanders players Arron Asham and Radek Martinek are slated to make special appearances, offering mentorship and inspiration to the young participants. Their presence reflects the team’s ongoing investment in grassroots development across Long Island.
Beyond the ice, the clinic exemplifies a growing trend of municipal‑sports partnerships that leverage professional franchises to enrich local youth programs. By combining expert instruction, equipment support and alumni engagement, Oyster Bay’s initiative promises a memorable introduction to hockey for a new generation of players.