Try Hockey for Free at PSM Icehouse: Everything Families Need to Know
Every hockey player has a first day.
The first pair of skates. The first time holding a hockey stick. The excitement of stepping onto the ice and discovering a sport that could become a lifelong passion.
This season, PSM Icehouse is proud to host six USA Hockey-sanctioned Try Hockey for Free events, including two dedicated Girls Try Hockey events, giving even more children the opportunity to experience hockey for the very first time.
Last season, 587 children participated in PSM Icehouse’s Try Hockey for Free and Girls Try Hockey events. Every participant represents more than a registration. They’re a child who discovered a new sport, built confidence, made new friends, and took the first step on a hockey journey.
Whether your child dreams of playing competitively or simply wants to try something new, there’s never been a better time to get started.
What Is USA Hockey’s Try Hockey for Free?
Try Hockey for Free is a nationwide initiative led by USA Hockey to introduce more children to the sport in a fun, welcoming, and beginner-friendly environment.
For the 2026-27 season, every Try Hockey for Free event at PSM Icehouse is officially sanctioned through USA Hockey, giving families the confidence of participating in a nationally recognized program designed specifically for first-time players.
The goal is simple: remove barriers, make hockey accessible, and help more children discover a lifelong love of the game.
Why Families Love Try Hockey for Free
Trying a new sport can feel overwhelming, especially if your child has never been on the ice before.
That’s exactly why these events exist.
Participants have the opportunity to:
- Experience hockey in a fun, supportive environment
- Learn from experienced coaches
- Build confidence on the ice
- Meet new friends
- Discover the excitement of hockey
No previous hockey experience is required.
Whether your child is stepping onto the ice for the very first time or has recently learned to skate, everyone is welcome.
Growing the Game for Everyone
At PSM Icehouse, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience hockey.
That’s why this year’s schedule includes both traditional Try Hockey for Free events and two dedicated Girls Try Hockey events.
Girls hockey continues to grow across North America, and we’re proud to help create more opportunities for girls to discover the sport in a welcoming and encouraging environment.
Together, these events help introduce more families to hockey while building a stronger and more inclusive hockey community throughout Fort Wayne.
What Happens After Try Hockey?
For many families, Try Hockey for Free is just the beginning.
After discovering the game, many participants continue through PSM Icehouse’s hockey development pathway.
The next step is Learn to Skate USA, where new players develop the skating skills that form the foundation of hockey.
From there, players can continue through:
- Hockey 1–2
- Hockey 3–4
- League Prep
- Fundamentals
- Youth Instructional League
- House Hockey or Travel Hockey
Every hockey journey is unique, but they all begin with that first stride onto the ice.
Join Us This Season
We’re excited to welcome new families throughout the 2026-27 season at our upcoming USA Hockey-sanctioned events.
Upcoming Try Hockey for Free Events
August 29, 2026
Welcome Back to the Ice Event
October 3, 2026
National Try Hockey for Free Day
December 19, 2026
Winter Wonder Ice Festival Try Hockey Event
February 27, 2027
National Try Hockey for Free Day
Upcoming Girls Try Hockey Events
January 23, 2027
April 24, 2027
Whether your child has dreamed of playing hockey or simply wants to try something new, we’d love to welcome your family to the rink.
One Stride Can Change Everything
Some children who attend Try Hockey for Free will go on to play youth hockey.
Others will discover a love of skating, develop lifelong friendships, and build confidence that extends far beyond the rink.
No matter where the journey leads, every hockey story begins the same way.
With one stride onto the ice.
We hope you’ll join us this season and discover why hundreds of families choose PSM Icehouse as the place where their hockey journey begins.