FAQ
2025 Winter Session Details
Sundays 4:15-5:15pm
Jan 5, 12, 19, 26 Feb 9, 16, 23 March 2, 9, 16
Location: Albany County Hockey Facility – 830 Albany-Shaker Road Loudonville, NY
Which door do I enter when I get to the rink?
First Door on the right after the box office opposite the changing benches.
ALWAYS wear mittens or gloves. A lightweight hat or ear warmer can also be useful. Although this is an indoor rink, some people may find it chilly.
We recommend that you dress your child in layers, such as a fleece jacket over a turtleneck or other long sleeved shirt. Winter jackets are generally not necessary and may present a problem with movement.
Young skaters may also wear skating dresses and tights if they so choose, but we do not require them.
Does my child need to wear a helmet?
Helmets are not required. Use your parental judgment to determine if your child needs a helmet.
What type of skates should I buy?
We do not allow double bladed skates. All skaters need single blade skates with good ankle support. Skates that do not fit properly may result in injury and/or lack of interest in the sport.
Where can I get skates?
Play it Again Sports on Rt. 7 in Latham carries a variety of good quality skates.
What time do I need to be at the rink?
All skaters should plan on arriving at the rink at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session. This allows for time to get your skates on and be ready to go when skaters session begins.
How will I know what group I am in?
Each child who is registered in our program, will pick up a preprinted name tag upon entering the rink. We use colored banners to signify where groups are to meet. Each name tag is color coded to a banner color. Please bear with us in the first few weeks as it can be confusing to someone who is not familiar with the program.
How many skaters do you put in a group?
We try to limit the number of skaters in the beginner groups to no more than 10.
Do you group the skaters by age or ability?
We try to group skaters by age and ability in the Learn to Skate program. In the Bridge "ASPIRE" program, skaters are grouped by ability, rather than age.
Will you be teaching my child how to play hockey?
No, but we do teach the basic skills that all skaters need.
Can I be in the same group as my friend?
We will make every attempt to put friends together, provided it is stated on the application AND both skaters are skating at or near the same level.
How will I know if I should be in the Bridge "ASPIRE" Group?
After the first few weeks, our skating pros get to know all of the skaters. Some children learn quicker than others. Those that are placed into a group will be moved to a more appropriate level by the skating pros as needed.
How will I know if classes are cancelled?
We will make every attempt to post information on the website as soon as it becomes available. Changes to the schedule, when known in advance, will be announced or you may receive a flyer informing you of changes.
How can I become involved in Club activities?
We encourage parents to become involved in our club by volunteering to staff the concession table, play music for the skaters and/or help to put up banners and take them down at the end of the session.
How can we practice between Saturday skating lessons?
HMFSC sponsors Freestyle Ice for practicing and private lessons.
Your skater may also enjoy these other Capital Region ice rinks:
Schenectady County Ice Rink