This spring and summer, Champions Hockey is partnering with the Fredericton Roller Hockey League (FRHL) to offer a structured and exciting roller hockey program for athletes in the Fredericton area. The program is designed to introduce players to the unique pace and strategy of roller hockey while providing a great environment for both development and competition.

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The program will run in two phases: a Development Foundations program followed by a 10-week league season.

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While players do not have to participate in both portions, athletes who register for the Development Foundations program will receive first priority when league spots are assigned.

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Phase 1: Development Foundations

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The first portion of the program focuses on helping athletes learn the fundamentals and strategy of roller hockey before league play begins. This portion will be led by Gabe Guertler, a former professional roller hockey player and 8-time US National Champion, who brings extensive experience and knowledge of the sport.

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Participants will learn:

• The strategy and structure of roller hockey

• Key differences between roller hockey and ice hockey

• Playing in a 4-on-4 format

• Game flow without traditional offside rules

• Positioning, puck movement, and spacing specific to roller hockey

• Skills that translate between roller and ice hockey

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This development block is designed to give players the confidence and understanding they need before moving into league competition.

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Age Groups & Times

U9/U11: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

U13/U15: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

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Development Dates

• May 5

• May 12

• May 19

• May 26

• June 3  (Grant Harvey Centre - Starts at 5:00pm)

• June 9 (Scrimmage Game Night - York Arena - Starts at 5:00pm)

(All sessions held at the same times each week)

 

Cost

$90 per participant

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Phase 2: FRHL Summer League

Following the Development Foundations program, players will transition into a 10-week roller hockey league for the same age groups.

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Champions Hockey will once again partner with the FRHL board, including Keith Arseneault, Andy Diduch, Rick McClare and Shaun Kennedy, to organize and operate the league.

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The league portion will give players the opportunity to apply what they learned during the development sessions while enjoying competitive games in a fun and structured environment.

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League Details

• 10-week season

• Same age divisions as the development program

• Teams formed following the development sessions

• Focus on fun, competition, and continued development

 

League Cost

$125 per participant

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All development sessions and league games will be in Fredericton.  We will provide an update as to which rink surface will be used for each session.​

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Why Roller Hockey Matters for Hockey Development

Roller hockey has long been used by players as a way to continue developing their skills away from the traditional ice season. Because the game is played in a 4-on-4 format without traditional offside rules, the pace is fast and players are constantly involved in the play.

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This style of game encourages athletes to develop:

• Quick decision making

• Puck control in tight spaces

• Creativity with the puck

• Spatial awareness and positioning

• Conditioning and endurance

 

With fewer players on the surface and continuous play, athletes tend to get more puck touches, more skating, and more offensive opportunities, all of which help translate directly back to ice hockey.

For young athletes especially, roller hockey is a great way to stay active during the spring and summer months while continuing to build hockey instincts and skills in a fun environment.​

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