Mini Monsters is a Learn to Play program operated by the Cleveland Monsters out of Winterhust Ice Arena. It is designed to provide a simplified introductory hockey development pathway for boys and girls ages 4 to 8 who are eager to learn the fundamentals of hockey in a fun and supportive environment. In partnership with Ohio Hockey Project, who will provide coaching and program development, the Mini Monsters introduces young athletes to the exciting world of hockey, focusing on basic skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

The Mini Monsters program is intended for new, first time participants with no prior hockey playing experience (i.e. prior registration on an organized time or in a USA Hockey program). Boys and girls ages 4-8 with the ability to skate independently are welcome to register.

It is a requirement that participants be self-sufficient and able to skate independently prior to enrollment in Mini Monsters Learn to Play. The first step in learning to play hockey is completion of a learn to skate program, which are available at many local rinks throughout Northeast Ohio including Winterhurst Ice Arena. 

The program fee for each three month is $200 and all participants will receive:

• Two on-ice sessions per week held on Mondays from 6:50pm-7:35pm and Saturdays 11:00am-11:45am
• A complete set of hockey equipment to use for the duration of the program on a rental basis
• A Mini Monsters jersey (yours to keep)
• 1 ticket to 2024-25 Cleveland Monsters home game and special recognition at the game

A complete set of hockey equipment will be provided to participants at the beginning of the program including stick, helmet with cage, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey pants, shin guards, socks, neck guard, hockey skates, and an equipment bag. All children will receive a Mini Monsters jersey to keep and wear during the experience. 

The Monsters have partnered with the Ohio Hockey Project, founded by former Monster and Northeast Ohio native Russ Sinkewich, to provide coaches for the program. Ohio Hockey Project coaches and Lakewood Community Ice Directors Brianne McLaughlin, a two-time Olympic silver medalist with the United States women’s national ice hockey team, and Shannon Szabados, a three-time Olympian and two-time gold medal winner for the Canadian women’s national ice hockey team, will assist in coaching the program.  Additional coaches from Ohio Hockey Project, Winterhurst Ice Arena, and the Cleveland Monsters will assist with on-ice programming. 

Winterhurst Ice Arena features two full-size ice rinks, providing ample space for public skating, figure skating, hockey leagues, and private rentals, and is conveniently located off of I-90 and close to the center of all Northeast Ohio Hockey rinks.  Winterhurst Ice Arena is located just minutes from Downtown Cleveland and serves a diverse community of residents.

The Monsters Community Foundation and its partners have held several spots for participants with financial need. To request information on how you can apply for financial assistance to join the Mini Monsters Learn to Play program email youthhockey@clevelandmonsters.