hockey in nova scotiaCanada is a nation of hockey lovers. It is certainly more than just a game – it’s an adored way of life and is characteristically Canadian.

From frozen-over ponds and community rinks, to the top arenas, you will find Canadians playing hockey. There is year round media coverage of hockey, there is a hockey scene on the back of the five dollar bill and Tim Horton’s is a major sponsor of hockey across Canada.

Not only are Canadians practicing everywhere, but you will find all ages and levels participating – from children who can barely walk to those in the National Hockey League (NHL).

The hockey program in Nova Scotia starts at age 4 and progresses through various skill levels. Ice time is an extremely precious commodity and as a parent, you will hear horror stories of kids being on the ice at 5am on a school day and away weekend after weekend for tournaments! It can certainly be a very demanding schedule.

It’s  ironic that a country renowned for being so peaceful is so deeply connected with a sport where fighting is not only accepted but even commended.

Our very own Halifax Mooseheads are a Canadian major junior hockey club in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) based here in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The team play their home games at the Scotiabank Centre with a seating capacity of 10,500.

Watching a hockey game is an experience like no other.

The speed and physicality of the game is one thing on TV, but in person it’s on an entirely different level. It’s a very fun, family orientated affair and a great night out.

One of our favourite hockey events in Halifax is The Teddy Bear Toss, where fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears to the game, and to throw Teddy Bear Toss Nova Scotiathem onto the ice when the Mooseheads scores its first goal. The toys are then gathered up to be donated as presents to the IWK and local charities. It’s very fun!

Although all three of our children have had skate lessons and are comfortable on the ice (Can Skate is a great program and offered at various centres throughout the country) none of them have expressed an interest in playing hockey. And sometimes we breathe a sigh of relief…..;)

As always, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Life is good in Nova Scotia!

Jane & Richard

Moving 2 Nova Scotia

hello@moving2novascotia.com

1-902-489-1804

A few helpful links:

Hockey Nova Scotia

Timbits Minor Sports Program Click here

CanSkate – Learn to Skate Programs

Halifax Skating Club

Dartmouth Skating Club

Bedford Skating Club

Sackville Skating Club

St. Margaret’s Bay Skating Club

Nova Scotia Skating Clubs

Other Skating Programs:

Free Skating Lessons for children, youth and families offered at Emera Oval

HRM Community & Recreation Services offers all levels of skating lessons and public skate sessions.

Learn to Skate at Dartmouth Sportsplex