Scholarships

The Grand Rapids Blades firmly believes that every child who wishes to participate in hockey should have the opportunity to do so. Therefore, we strive to provide scholarship assistance to players with financial need who would otherwise not benefit from the youth hockey experience. These scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis based on financial need and available funds. Funding for the scholarship program is accumulated via special donations and fundraising activities conducted throughout the preceding season.

Click here for more information.

Register for Blades Developmental Programs

Registration is open for our Learn to Skate, Cross-Ice, and Mite Hockey programs. 

Registration Link

Learn to Skate (Session #1 begins October 5th)

2019 birth years skate for free!

Saturdays: 10:00 - 11:00am

Register for the full season or any individual session

Session 1 starts 10/5 (7 skates)

Session 2 starts 11/23 (7 skates)

Session 3 starts 1/18 (7 skates)

Cross Ice (Practice Starts Week of September 30th)

2019 birth years skate receive $300 discount!

2 practices per week

Local jamborees/games

Mites (Practice Starts Week of September 30th)

2 practices per week

Mite jamborees/games (most weekends)

Opportunity for 2016's to participate in up to 5 MAHA tournaments (additional fees)Links for registration and additional information on the programs:

Contacts for Questions

Director of Player Development: Alec Slazas (playerdevelopment@grblades.org)

Little Red Wings Lace Up in Grand Rapids: Blades Partner with NHL Learn to Play

The Grand Rapids Blades are thrilled to announce our new partnership with the NHL Learn to Play program, bringing the "Little Wings" initiative to West Michigan. This program aims to introduce young hockey enthusiasts to the sport in a fun and affordable way, providing them with the opportunity to develop fundamental skills and a passion for the game.

Participants in the Little Wings program will receive a full set of hockey equipment, including skates, a stick, and protective gear. They'll also benefit from expert instruction from qualified coaches during on-ice sessions. The program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a safe and positive environment.

The Blades are proud to support the growth of hockey in our community, and we believe this partnership will inspire the next generation of hockey stars. We can’t wait to see these Little Red Wings lace up their skates and discover the joy of hockey!

Registration for the Little Wings program is now open. Visit this link for more information and to sign up: 

https://www.nhl.com/redwings/community/youth-hockey/little-wings 

Goalie Incentive Program

Grand Rapids Blades are thrilled to announce a new Goalie Incentive Program for the 2024/25 Fall/Winter Season!

50% off one player season fee will be credited to goalies for all House and Travel teams once teams are rostered.

GR Blades Coaches with NCAA D1 Playing Careers

Did you know the GR Blades have 6 coaches on staff throughout the organization with NCAA D1 college hockey playing careers? Not only do these coaches possess a high level knowledge of the game, they are amazing people that are dedicating their time to improve the development of our youth and build their passion for the game.