Welcome to Hockey!

New to hockey? You’re in the right place!

We’ve all been there. Your child decides they want to try a new sport, and suddenly you’re wondering, “Where do I even start?” Hockey can seem like a lot at first—but don’t worry, we’re here to help!

Whether your player is brand new to the sport or you're just new to the hockey-parent world, this page is designed to make getting started a little easier.

Here you’ll find helpful information about:

  • What gear your player needs — and where to buy it.
  • How to dress your player — from the first layer to the helmet and skates.
  • What you need to know about the season — including team communication, schedules, and other important information.

Don’t be overwhelmed!

There is a lot to learn when you’re new to hockey, but you do not have to figure it all out on your own. Ask questions, talk to other NHC families, and reach out to us when you need help.

We’re excited to welcome your family to Nazareth Hockey Club and hope your player has a great first season on the ice!

Welcome to the NHC family!

What Gear Your Player Needs and where to get it

Every hockey player needs the following equipment:

  • Hockey skates
  • Hockey helmet
  • Shoulder pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Shin guards
  • Neck guard
  • Hockey pants
  • Hockey gloves
  • Hockey stick
  • Hockey Bag
  • Mouth Guard (mandatory at middle school and up)

Don’t feel like you need to buy everything new! NHC has gear available that can be swapped or borrowed FREE by NHC families. If your player needs equipment or has outgrown something, talk to your team’s Equipment Manager to see what we have available.

If we do not have the correct size, Play It Again Sports on Catasauqua Road in Bethlehem is a great local option for hockey equipment. Dick’s Sporting Goods and many online retailers also carry good-quality hockey gear.

Not sure what size to get? Don’t guess! Hockey equipment needs to fit properly to provide the protection it is designed to provide. We’re happy to help you figure out what your player needs.


How to dress your player

Buying the gear is half the battle—getting your player dressed is the other half!

Not sure what goes where or what order everything goes on? Don’t worry! This video from USA Hockey walks you through the basics of dressing a hockey player.

Neck guards are required whenever a player is on the ice, including practices and games. This requirement applies to players of all ages. No player will be allowed on the ice without a neck guard.

https://youtu.be/TxN9d__QnPc?si=DEs-IZ6lNgZNRwek

What you need to know about the season

TeamLInkt

While we send emails throughout the season, TeamLinkt is our main form of communication.

  • Each family will receive an email invitation to join their player’s team in the TeamLinkt app.

  • Once you join, you can add other family members to the app.

  • Coaches will post team updates, announcements, and other important information in TeamLinkt.

  • Team schedules for practices and games will be posted in the app.

  • Parents should RSVP for practices and games through TeamLinkt so coaches know who will be attending.

Tip: Make sure your TeamLinkt notifications are turned on so you don't miss important team information!


Season Schedule

As long as the weather cooperates, we plan to begin practices on Sunday, October 25.

Our game schedule will be released by the league during the first week of October. Once we receive the schedule, we will post it on our website and in TeamLinkt.

The league website, LVSHL.org, will also have the game schedule, game results, and player statistics. Game results and player stats are typically posted the week following each game.


Fundraisers

Throughout the season, NHC will have various fundraising opportunities to help support the club and our players. Information about fundraisers will be shared through TeamLinkt and email, including what is being sold, important dates, and how to participate.

Player Photos

Individual player photos will be taken during the season at NO COST  courtesty of Todd Labar (https://www.toddlabar.com). Information about the photo date, time, and ordering process will be shared with families through TeamLinkt and email.