What's more Canadian than heading to your local rink to participate in recreational skating or hockey programs? The Town of Orangeville offers a variety of on-ice recreational programs for a variety of ages and abilities.   Pre-registration is available online and is encouraged so that you can secure your spot in advance.  Pay as you go or buy a pass if you come often. Passes are available in 10x, 20x or 50x visits. Are you interested in learning to skate? We've get lessons starting at age 2. Lace up those skates and get out there this winter!

Drop-In Skating
Public Skate, Shinny Hockey, Adult Skates and more.
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Ice & Floor Rentals
Book ice or floor time for an upcoming practice, tournament or event.
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Skating Lessons
Skating Lessons
Parent & child, group, private & semi-private skating lessons beginning at age 2.
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Hockey Lessons
Power skating, parent & player pre-power and private lessons beginning at age 3. Full hockey equipment is required.
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Skating & Hockey Lessons

Skating lessons are available beginning at age 2 at Alder Recreation Centre and Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre. Registration for skating lessons is open now!

Required Equipment

For skating lessons, required equipment includes:

  • Ice Skates
    • Hockey skates are preferred for beginners;
    • Ensure skates are sharpened prior to first use;
    • BOB skates are not permitted.
  • CSA-Approved hockey helmet
    • Bicycle, snowboarding, BMX and other types of helmets are not permitted for skating;
    • A full face mask (an accessory attached to the hockey helmet) is strongly recommended but not required.
  • Warm Clothing
    • Waist length jacket (long jackets are not recommended), warm pants or snow pants, and mittens are required.

Skating Lessons Equipment Guide

For power skating and private hockey lessons, CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.
Beginners - Skating Lessons
Parent & Child (Ages 2 to 5)
This program teaches your child the fundamentals of skating with the assistance of the parent in a group lesson format.

Skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory for both Parent & Child. Full face masks are strongly recommended. No bob skates.

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Preschool (Ages 4 to 5)
This program teaches the fundamentals of skating in a group lesson format, for beginners to advanced skaters. Participants are assessed and divided into levels based on skating ability.

Skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory. Full face masks are strongly recommended. No bob skates.

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Youth (Ages 6 to 17)
This program teaches the fundamentals of skating in a group lesson format, for beginners to advanced skaters. Participants are assessed and divided into levels based on skating ability.

Skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory. Full face masks are strongly recommended. No bob skates.

Register Now
Private, Semi-Private & Small Group Lessons
Private skating lessons with a focus on beginner/recreational to advanced skating skills (not hockey). Instructor to participant ratio is 1:1.

Semi-Private: This program teaches the fundamentals of skating for beginners to advanced skaters (not hockey). Participants are assessed and divided into levels based on skating ability. Instructor to participant ratio is 1:2.

Small Group: This program teaches the fundamentals of skating in a small group format, for beginners to advanced skaters (not hockey). Participants are assessed and divided into levels based on skating ability. Instructor to participant ratio is 1:3.

Skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory. Full face masks are strongly recommended. No bob skates.

Register Now
Adapted Private Lessons

Adapted private skating lessons with a focus on beginner/recreational to advanced skating skills. This program is designed to support children with varying physical and cognitive abilities to learn the basics of skating or improve their skating skills. The registration process includes the completion of an Adapted Skating Form. This will help instructors to develop individualized learning strategies to implement during your child's lesson.

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Advanced - Hockey Lessons & Power Skating
Power Skating (Ages 7 to 17)

Take control of your edges in an on-ice group class that breaks down the fundamental components of skating efficiency, power, balance, and agility which will enhance the skills of any player. 

  • Classes include work on using all four edges of your skate blade, full-stride extension, recovery, balance, pivots, crossovers, tight turns, backwards skating, agility, and stops.

This program is suitable for participants who are registered and currently participating in a hockey program at the Rep or House League level. Players must be able to skate the length of the ice with speed, and have backwards skating ability.

CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.

Register Now

Parent & Player Pre-Power (Ages 4 to 5)

In this program participants are taught to stand up, balance, forward and backward movements, and to stop in preparation for playing hockey, with the assistance of a parent or caregiver (ages 16+). Each participant must be accompanied by a parent/caregiver. "Fun time" during each class will include pucks.

For players, CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.


Parent/caregiver must be 16+ years old, have skates, CSA hockey helmet, hockey gloves and stick. Parent/caregiver must have some skating ability including forward, backward skating and stopping.

Register Now

Semi Private Power Skating (Age 6)

Take control of your edges in an on-ice group class that breaks down the fundamental components of skating efficiency, power, balance, and agility which will enhance the skills of any player. 

  • Classes include work on using all four edges of your skate blade, full-stride extension, recovery, balance, pivots, crossovers, tight turns, backwards skating, agility, and stops.

This program is suitable for participants who are registered and currently participating in a hockey program at the Rep or House League level. Players must be able to skate the length of the ice with speed, and have backwards skating ability.

CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.

Register Now

Private Hockey / Ringette (Ages 6 to 17)

Take control of your edges in an on-ice private lesson that breaks down the fundamental components of skating efficiency, power, balance, and agility which will enhance the skills of the player through individual error detection and correction.

Classes include work on using all four edges of your skate blade, full-stride extension, recovery, balance, pivots, crossovers, tight turns, backwards skating, agility, and stops. Classes may include puck development where available. 

This program is suitable for participants who are registered and currently participating in a hockey/ringette program at the Rep or House League level.

CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.


Register Now

Parent & Child Mini Hockey Learn to Skate (Ages 2 to 4)

In this NEW program participants are taught to stand up, balance, forward and backward movements, and to stop in preparation for playing hockey, with the assistance of a parent or caregiver (ages 16+). Each participant must be accompanied by a parent/caregiver. "Fun time" during each class may include pucks.

CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask, gloves and hockey stick are mandatory. Parent/caregiver must be 16+ years old, have skates, CSA hockey helmet, hockey gloves and stick.

Parent/caregiver must have some skating ability including forward, backward skating and stopping.

Register Now
Frequently Asked Questions

When does registration open for skating and hockey lessons?

Registration for Fall programs generally opens in August. Winter I registration opens in November. Winter II registration opens in January.

Based on ice availability, lessons may be offered for the Spring session. In this case, registration would open in March. 

What equipment do I need for skating lessons?

For skating lessons, required equipment includes:

  • Ice Skates
    • Hockey skates are preferred for beginners;
    • Ensure skates are sharpened prior to first use;
    • BOB skates are not permitted.
  • CSA-Approved hockey helmet
    • Bicycle, snowboarding, BMX and other types of helmets are not permitted for skating;
    • A full face mask (an accessory attached to the hockey helmet) is strongly recommended but not required.
  • Warm Clothing
    • Jacket, warm pants or snow pants, and mittens are required.

Skating Lessons Equipment Guide

What equipment do I need for hockey lessons?

For power skating and private hockey lessons, CSA-approved full hockey equipment, including CSA-approved hockey helmet with facemask and hockey stick are mandatory.

For Parent & Child classes, what equipment is required for parents?

Skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory for both Parent & Child. Full face masks are strongly recommended. No bob skates.

Skating Lessons Equipment Guide

What time should I arrive for my lesson?

Please arrive at the rink with enough time to put your equipment on (at least 15 minutes early). It is important to be on time as late arrivals affect the progress of each class. 

Where can I put my skates on when I arrive at the arena?

Please use the changerooms assigned at the sign-in table. In order to minimize clutter and ensure a safe entrance/exit route at the arena doors, it is important for families to use the changerooms to put on skates.

What level should I register in?

Registration for skating lessons is by age. At the first lesson, skaters are assessed and divided into levels based on skill level. Records are kept for returning skaters and will likely already be assigned a group upon arrival to their first lesson.

What is the temperature in the arena?

Rink air temperatures can drop below -1°C. Ice temperatures usually sit around a chilly -6°C. Bundle up!

Do you offer Private Lessons?

Yes. We have two options for private lessons. Private Learn to Skate and Private Hockey. It is important to register into the correct program so we can assign an instructor with the appropriate skill set.

I am a beginner who’s interested in playing hockey, should I register for Power Skating?

Not yet. Power Skating is suitable for participants who are registered and currently participating in a hockey program at the Rep or House League level. Players must be able to skate the length of the ice with speed, and have backwards skating ability. Continue to work on your skating skills and when you’re ready, join Power Skating.

Is there a pro shop at the arena?

Yes, BDS Hockey is located at Alder Recreation Centre and offers skate sharpening, laces, select equipment and more.

 

BDS Hockey - Orangeville
275 Alder St
Orangeville, Ontario L9W5H6
(519) 943-2247
[email protected]

www.bdshockey.com

Who can I call for more information?

Allison Dukovski

Supervisor, Recreation Programs & Events

[email protected]

519-940-9092 extension 4129

Drop-In Skating Information

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 Shinny Hockey 

A great way to stay active and enjoy a great Canadian Sport in a recreational, pick-up format. Our very popular Shinny programs are offered in various age groups.  Shinny is an un-supervised (no referees), non-contact program and is based on a first come first served basis (capacities do apply).  Program staff are on-site to help facilitate for child and youth shinnies. On-line pre-registration is available.  Full hockey equipment and CSA approved helmet is required.  

Pre-registration is required for all Youth Shinnies. Drop-ins are welcome, if space permits, but players must register at the Customer Service Desk. 

All Youth Shinny participants must have a RecConnect account.

Pre-Register Now
 Public Skating
Open skate times are available to participants of all ages and abilities.  This program is supervised by Town of Orangeville staff and is designed for skaters to skate laps.  A pyloned off areas is available for those learning the basics and skate aids are provided when available.  No sticks or pucks are allowed during this program.  

View Public Skating Equipment Guide
Family Skate
A family friendly skate designed to provide a quieter, slower pace to allow families with young children time to practice skating skills.  Parents are required to participate and this skate is not supervised by skate patrol staff.  
 Tiny Tots
Designed for preschool aged skaters 1 to 5 years of age to come out and learn to skate in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere.  Age-appropriate music is played and skate aids are available.  Helmets must be worn by all pre-school aged participants.  For the budding young hockey player, a pyloned off area is available to work on stick and puck skills for both parent and child.  Parents, a reminder for everyone's safety, no slap shots or raised pucks please. Not supervised by skate patrol staff. 
 Adult Recreational Skate
Looking for a little exercise during the day? This program is geared to adults 18 years of age and older.  Listen to some great music from the 70's, 80's and 90's.  No pucks allowed but please feel free to bring a stick to work on balance.  Speed skaters are also welcome!
 Figure Skating Skills
This ice time is for practicing the fundamentals of figure skating skills and improving strength and endurance.  Skaters and coaches must both register and pay admission fee or purchase a pass. 
 Hockey Skills

Work on fundamental hockey skills in this friendly, no contact environment.  Parents and/or coaches can attend with a child and both must register and pay admission fee or purchase a pass.  Children must attend with an adult and be supervised. Full hockey equipment and CSA approved helmet is required for the "player" and coaches and parents must wear a helmet and appropriate equipment to supervise children on the ice.  

Pay-as-you-go / Drop-in Fees
ProgramAgeFee
Shinny All ages $5
Figure Skating Skills All ages $5
Hockey Skills All Ages $5
Recreational Skate Fees 
AgesFee
Preschooler (1 to 5 years) $2
Child (6 to 13 years) $3
Youth (14 to 17 years) $3
Adult (18 years to 54 years) $3.75
Senior (55 to 79 years) $3
Super Senior (80 years +) $2.50
Family (2 adults 18+ and 2 children under 14) $11
Group (6 people) $16.75
Passes (applicable for all on-ice recreational programs)
Age Group10x Fee20 x Fee50 x Fee
 Preschooler (1 to 5 years)  $18  $32.40  $79.20
 Child (6 to 13 years)  $20  $36  $88
 Youth (14 to 17 years)  $25  $45  $110
 Adult (18 to 54 years)  $30  $54  $132
 Senior (55 to 79 years)  $25  $45  $110
 Super Senior (80 years +)  $20  $36 $88 

An additional 20% non-resident fee is applicable to most programs and passes.  

Book ice or floor time

Learn how to book ice or floor time for an upcoming practice, tournament or event.

Skating Admission Information 

For the purposes of the above and below rules, "Public Skating" includes Public Skates, Family Skates, Adult Skates and Tiny Tots.

Inclusion & Support Equipment

To encourage participation, the use of Personal Assistive Mobility Device (PAMD) is allowed at all public access programs (unless otherwise stated).  

The following will be observed in order to ensure participant safety and enjoyment:

  •  ​It is strongly recommended participants using PAMD's
    • Wear a CSA certified hockey helmet with full facemask; and
    • Ensure that their equipment does not interfere with other programs, participants, or impact the safety of others
  • Parents/Guardians/Support Persons are responsible for all participant transfers, as they are the most familiar with the individual’s physical conditions and proper methods of handling and carrying.
    • Staff are not permitted to transfer participants.

Note: Chairs, hockey sticks, strollers, toboggans and other such equipment/devices are not to be used as a PAMD.
Skate Aids

To assist skaters in the beginning stages of development, skate aids may be available/permitted during Public Skates.

The following will be enforced in order to ensure participant safety and enjoyment:

  1. ​Participants using skate aids must wear a CSA certified hockey helmet with full facemask.
  2. Participants may use their own skate aids provided that:
    • ​The device is a manufactured skate aid (eg. homemade teaching aids are prohibited);
    • The skate aid does not damage the ice surface, have sharp edges, and/or be an obvious hazard; and
    • Patrons are responsible for the safety and security of their own equipment.
Helmet Requirements
A properly fitted helmet is an important piece of protective equipment and is required for participation in Town of Orangeville registered skating and hockey lessons. Here are some tips to ensure you have a properly fitted helmet: 
  • Make sure the helmet fits snug with little movement 
  • The helmet must have a Canadian Standards Association sticker (CSA) 
  • There should be one finger width space between the eyebrows and the rim of the helmet 
  • The helmet should fit flat on top of the head 
  • Ensure the helmet chin straps are clipped together 
  • No more than two fingers should fit between the chin and straps 
  • A full face cage is recommended 

Helmets are not required for public skating programs, however are highly recommended. 

Full hockey equipment and CSA approved helmet is required for all shinny programs.
Shinny, Hockey Skills & Figure Skating Skills Admission Rules
  • Children under ten (10) years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian who is at least fourteen (14) years of age, who remains within visual contact with the participant.
  • Children ten (10) years of age and older do not require supervision.
  • Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certified hockey helmets and full face cages are required for all shinny participants who are under the age of 18. Over 18 participants must wear Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certified hockey helmets, however they are not required to wear a full face cage, but it is strongly recommended.​
  • Full hockey equipment mandatory for all shinny participants.
  • ​Slap shots and body checking are strictly prohibited.​​
  • Participants are not permitted on the ice while the ice resurfacer is in operation.
  • Private lessons/coaching on the ice surface is strictly prohibited.
  • Single blade skates are the only type of footwear permitted on the ice.
  • Spectators are only permitted in designated viewing areas.
  • All accidents or injuries must be reported to staff immediately.
  • Participants with serious medical conditions should be accompanied by individuals knowledgeable of their condition and responsible for their direct supervision.​​​​​

Pre-registration is required for all Youth Shinnies. Drop-ins are welcome, if space permits, but players must register at the Customer Service Desk. 

All Youth Shinny participants must have a RecConnect account.

Pre-Register Now

Public Skate Admission Rules

The following are the general admission standards that apply to all Drop-In Public Skate programs:

Participants under the age of ten (10) must be under the direct supervision of a parent/guardian who is at least fourteen (14) years of age:

  • ​Parents/guardians must maintain visual contact with those they are supervising and remain in the arena enclosure at all times.
  • CSA approved hockey helmets and full facemasks are strongly recommended for all skating participants.
  • Single blade skates are the only type of footwear permitted on the ice..
  • Participants with serious medical conditions should be accompanied by individuals knowledgeable of their condition and responsible for their direct supervision

Public Skating Rules
  • No skating backwards or performing figure skating maneuvers.
  • No skating against the flow of other skaters.
  • No skating erratically or excessive speeds.
  • No standing idle on the boards.

The Recreation & Events Department reserves the right to cancel or alter any classes, times, costs or locations of programs without notice in the event of low enrolment or change of availability of facilities or instructors.

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