The Fairfax County Park Authority and The Washington Capitals are bringing hockey to Lake Fairfax Park on Sept. 15 and Nov. 3. Come join the fun with The Washington Capitals’ Learn to Inline Skate and Try Hockey For Free programs. These programs provide a safe, fun and accessible environment led by The Caps Youth Hockey Development’s USA Hockey-certified coaching staff. Both programs are designed for children ages 5-17. Each clinic is limited to 60 participants and online registration is required.

Learn to Inline Skate (10:30 – 11:30 a.m.)

This program is designed for first-time skaters and participants will receive age-appropriate introductory instruction on the fundamentals of hockey skating and power-skating. The focus is on developing proper techniques with all instruction being conducted without a puck. Fundamentals that will be taught include basic hockey stance, stride, knee bend, control on edges, and other necessary elements needed to be a successful skater. Participants will be able to borrow all necessary protective equipment (helmet, elbow pads, gloves, knee pads, and skates) for the clinic. Register at the Youth Hockey Development website.  

Try Hockey For Free (12:30 – 1:30 p.m.)

This program provides free access to hockey for kids who have never participated in the sport before. Each participant will learn the basics of hockey, including stickhandling, passing and shooting. The Washington Capitals will provide a stick and a ball for each participant at the beginning of the clinic. No other hockey equipment is required. Proper laced athletic footwear is required – no Crocs, flip-flops, sandals, etc. Proper athletic attire is also required for each clinic – no jeans, skirts or other non-athletic attire. Register at the Youth Hockey Development website.

These event are a continuation of the Park Authority’s partnership with The Washington Capitals that led to the creation of the ball/inline hockey rink at Lake Fairfax Park located adjacent to the Lake Fairfax Park campground and skate park. Entry to the park is at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston.

For more information about the program or for general details about the rink, please contact the park at 703-471-5415 or visit the Lake Fairfax Park website.