The First Shift

The NHL/NHLPA FIRST SHIFT program is designed to ensure a positive experience for new-to-hockey families. We want families to experience the game at its best — to understand why so many Canadians feel an inherent love for the sport, and to stimulate a desire for continued participation. We want to take away any intimidation as it relates to equipment requirements, and/or rules of the game, remove potential safety concerns, and most importantly, provide an experience that is memorable and fun.

We believe in all hockey has to offer kids, their families and our communities. We designed the NHL/NHLPA FIRST SHIFT to facilitate entry into hockey by offering a program that is ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE, SAFE, and most importantly, FUN! We cannot wait to help your kids fall in love with hockey.

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift is open to children, between the ages of 6 and 10 years old*, who have never previously enrolled in minor hockey within Canada or the NHL/NHLPA First Shift program.

Hockey Edmonton will be hosting THREE First Shift programs.  One in the Fall (begins November 15) and one in the Winter (begins January 31) and one in the Spring (begins May 16).

Participant registration fee of $299 includes:

  • 6 Weeks, 1 session/week, 1 hour on a consistent day and time

  • BAUER Equipment (Head-to-Toe)

  • Welcome Event

  • Equipment fitting demonstration

  • Expert fit session and equipment distribution

To learn more about The First Shift program, click here.

Welcome Event: April 2nd Edmonton Food Bank, 11434 - 120 Street NW, Edmonton, AB
On-Ice Sessions: All sessions are held at The Meadows Arena (2704 17 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6T 0X1) and will run from May 16 - June 20, 2026.
Schedule for Spring 2026 Sessions

All sessions are held at The Meadows Arena (2704 17 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6T 0X1) and will run from May 16 - June 20, 2026.

SAT 2026-05-16 TMW 11:45 12:45

SAT 2026-05-23 TMW 11:45 12:45

SAT 2026-05-30 TMW 11:45 12:45

SAT 2026-06-06 TME 11:45 12:45

SAT 2026-06-13 TME 11:45 12:45

SAT 2026-06-20 TME 11:45 12:45

For more information on registrations, please contact: office@hockeyedmonton.ca

FIRST SHIFT SCHEDULES