Our cross ice program is designed for young players from four to 10 years old who need a program more focused on instruction and training or are looking for an alternative to a “learn to play hockey” program. It is based on a model of practicing and playing ice hockey across the ice surface rather than lengthwise along the full ice surface.

Berks Bear Cubs Cross Ice offers eight and 10-week training programs throughout the year. One-hour sessions are comprised of 30 minutes of instruction and 30 minutes of game play. The program is designed and directed by Matt Herneisen, former Reading Royals captain. Proof of USA Hockey Membership required for all players. For helpful information on equipment and supplies for your young player, click here for a Beginner’s Guide to Outfitting your Hockey Player.   

Berks Bear Cubs Cross Ice Program has many practice and game time advantages that create an exciting and successful learning environment:

• Skating cross ice (85 feet), rather than full length of ice, gives children more energy to improve skills
• Small group sizes provides more one-on-one teaching, and more repetition and frequency in drills
• Small rink format creates feeling of being an important part of the action
• Game time format creates more puck contact and shooting opportunities
• Goalkeepers see more repetition
• Players experience increased speed in playing situations prompting quicker mental and physical reaction
• No unnecessary breaks in games for off-sides or icing means more playing time

2012 Programs

Spring Session
Days	Dates	Time	Cost	Ages
Wednesday	April 4-11, April 25-May 30*	6:30-7:30 PM	$80	4-10
	*No Cross Ice on 4/18

*Must pre-register. No walk-ins accepted. Space is limited.

Contact
Matt Herneisen
Director of Ice Hockey
610-376-2100 x 233