Frequently Asked Questions | Shinny of Champions
Have questions about joining Shinny of Champions programs? This adult beginner hockey FAQ covers everything from what gear you need to how to register for programs like Beginner Hockey (BH), Shinnies, and Powerskating. Whether you’re brand new or returning to the ice, we’ve got answers to help you get started with confidence.
Adult Beginner Hockey FAQ
Popular Questions
Never played hockey? Perfect. That's exactly who this program is for. We take complete beginners from "how do I stop?" to playing real games, and we make it fun the whole way through. No experience required, no judgment, no ego. Just a group of adults who decided to finally do the thing. If you can show up ready to try, we'll handle the rest.
You don't need to be a skater, but you should be able to move on the ice without hugging the boards. Most of our players come in with little to no skating experience, and they do just fine. If you're unsure, we've got you covered. SOC runs a short Learn to Skate program to get you started, and CanSkate's adult Learn to Skate is a solid option too.
You'll go from skating basics to stickhandling, passing, shooting, positioning, and real team play. By the end, you're not just learning drills. You're putting it all together in actual games against your fellow beginners. Check out our Beginner Hockey page for a full breakdown of what the course covers.
The program runs for 12 weeks. Each lesson builds on the last, so by the time you're done, everything clicks together on the ice.
Yes! In the final phase of the program, you’ll form a team and compete in 4 full hockey games against other beginner teams from within the program. These games provide a structured, supportive environment where you can apply everything you’ve learned.
Cancelled before your first session? You'll receive a credit toward a future program, valid for one year. Once the program is underway, we're unable to offer refunds or credits as your spot has been reserved.
No, all payments are final – no refunds or credits. Be sure you can attend before registering.
✔ Helmet with a full cage or visor
✔ Skates
✔ Gloves
✔ Shin guards
✔ Elbow pads
✔ Shoulder pads
✔ Hockey pants
✔ Stick
✔ Protective cup/pelvic protector
Nope, we provide a jersey and a pair of hockey socks for you as part of your registration.
BH 2.0 is the next step after BH 1.0. You'll build on the fundamentals and get into more advanced skating, stickhandling, positioning, and game sense, wrapping up with real scrimmages that put it all together. Ideal for anyone who has completed BH 1.0 or comes in with some basic hockey experience.
Shinnies
Popular Questions
Shinny is casual, non-contact, drop-in hockey, where players come together for a fun, relaxed game. There are no set teams—players are assigned teams upon arrival. Our shinnies are structured for beginner and intermediate players, with some games including referees.
- Join our WhatsApp group to get started.
- If approved, you’ll be invited to BenchApp, where you can browse upcoming skates.
- E-transfer the fee to shinnyofedmonton@gmail.com, including the skate number in the memo (e.g., Skate 117).
- Check into the waitlist on BenchApp.
- What if I don’t get moved from the waitlist immediately?
Don’t worry! If you’ve paid and checked into the waitlist, we’ve received your payment. We update BenchApp in batches, so you may not be moved immediately.
Each shinny session has a listed fee in the notes section of BenchApp. Prices vary based on ice time, location, and whether referees are included.
No, all payments are final – no refunds or credits. Please be sure you can make the skate before paying.
SOC is ultimately a novice shinny group, so when we say our Tier 1 – Intermediate skates are “faster,” we don’t mean they’re full of AAA or elite-level players. Instead, these skates are for beginners who have been playing for a year or two and are looking for a bit more structure, speed, and competition than our mixed or beginner skates.
Expect:
✔ Quicker tempo than beginner shinny
✔ More structured play – better positioning, passing, and game flow
✔ Players comfortable skating and handling the puck at speed
✔ No reckless play – still beginner-friendly, just at a faster pace
If you’re not sure if Tier 1 – Intermediate is right for you, ask an organizer and we’ll help guide you to the right shinny!
Yes! However, all players must be approved and added to BenchApp before they can sign up.
Yes, about half of our shinnies have referees to help structure the game and maintain fair play. The rest are self-officiated, with players expected to follow respectful and sportsmanlike conduct.
No, goalies play for free, but spots are limited.
Yes, full hockey equipment is required to ensure player safety.
Please bring both a dark and a white jersey so teams can be easily adjusted on the ice.
Shinnies are hosted at various arenas across the city. The exact location is listed in BenchApp for each skate.
If a skate is full, you can stay on the waitlist. If a spot opens up, we’ll move the next eligible player into the game.
Our shinnies are about having fun and playing safe. We expect:
✔ Respectful play – No reckless behavior or aggressive contact.
✔ Inclusivity – Stronger players are expected to mentor, not dominate.
✔ Good sportsmanship – Help build a positive community on and off the ice.
Skills Development
Popular Questions
We run power skating and skills sessions designed for beginners and developing players looking to improve their skating, puck control, passing, and shooting.
These sessions are ideal for players who have basic skating ability and want to become faster, more confident, and improve their puck control and shooting.
Power Skating focuses on edge work, stride efficiency, speed, agility, and balance—helping you move more efficiently and confidently on the ice.
Each session focuses on a combination of:
✔ Skating drills – improving edge control, acceleration, and agility
✔ Stickhandling & passing – developing better puck control
✔ Shooting techniques – wrist shots, snap shots, and slap shots
✔ Game awareness – positioning and decision-making
No! These sessions are designed to help beginners and intermediate players improve their skating and overall skills at their own pace.
Our power skating and skills development sessions are led by Scott Fellnermayr, Head Coach of the NAIT Ooks Men’s Hockey Team, along with other experienced instructors.
Sessions take place at various times throughout the season. Please check the schedule page for exact dates and locations.
Each session runs 60 minutes, focusing on high-rep drills and personalized feedback.
✔ Full hockey gear is required for all sessions.
✔ A water bottle for breaks.
Tournaments
Popular Questions
We’ll post updates on our website when tournament registrations open. Spots fill quickly, so keep an eye out and sign up early to secure your place.
All players register as individuals. Teams are drafted to ensure balanced competition and a great experience for everyone.
Yes! Our tournaments are open to all genders.
Since all our tournaments are draft-style, we manage the skill balance within each event to keep games fair and fun. The best way to see if you’ll be a good fit is to come out to our shinnies and experience the level of play.
We focus on creating the best competitive balance possible by vetting all participants. This ensures games are fun, fair, and highly engaging, no matter your experience level.
All players are evaluated and drafted to ensure teams are as even as possible, creating a competitive but fun experience.
Most of our tournaments are in Edmonton, but we also run out-of-town events. Check the tournament page for details.
✔ A guaranteed number of games
✔ Balanced draft-style teams
✔ A tournament jersey (for some events)
✔ A fun, competitive atmosphere
Game length varies by tournament, but most follow a structured format with referees and timekeepers to ensure organized, competitive play.
While hockey is the focus, we also raise funds for charities at each event. Past tournaments have supported causes like the Edmonton Food Bank and wildfire relief efforts.
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