The City of Hoboken and the New Jersey Devils has launched a new Youth Ball Hockey Program at the renovated Johnny Ray McDonald Jr. Hockey Rink at the Multi-Service Center, 124 Grand St.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“This program represents an exciting new opportunity for Hoboken’s youth to stay active, build skills, and enjoy team sports in a safe and newly improved facility.We’re committed to expanding recreational offerings that reflect the diverse interests of our community, and we’re thrilled to welcome a new generation of ball hockey players right here in Hoboken,” Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement.
“I am grateful to the New Jersey Devils for their generous support, which not only made this possible at no cost to taxpayers, but also honors Coach Johnny Ray McDonald’s legacy in a meaningful way.”
The program, offered by the city’s recreation division, in collaboration with the New Jersey Devils, will teach Hoboken youth between the ages of 5 and 17 years old the fundamentals of hockey and gameplay in a supportive, co-ed environment.
Registration will open on Friday, Sept. 5, at newjerseydevils.com/hobokenhockey. Please note, space is limited and available on a first-come, first served basis. Once program capacity is reached, registrants will be placed on a waitlist.
All equipment, t-shirts, pinnies, and gift bags will be provided courtesy of the New Jersey Devils.
“Partnering with the City of Hoboken and Hoboken Recreation to kick off the 2025-26 hockey season is an exciting opportunity to grow our game year-round,” added New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center Chief Marketing Officer Jillian Frechette.
“This brand new ball hockey program, hosted on a beautifully renovated, best-in-class rink, establishes an accessible and inclusive recreational offering for a very passionate hockey community. We’re incredibly thankful for the NHL, NHLPA, Mayor Bhalla, and City of Hoboken’s unwavering support. All of us look forward to building upon the hockey development offerings at this facility in the same manner that Johnny Ray McDonald, Jr. dedicated himself to this community.”
The program, led by qualified coaching staff along with special appearances by Devils alumni, is designed to accommodate a wide range of age groups. Sessions will be held weekly from October 1st through November 1st.
The schedule is as follows:
Wednesdays – Oct. 1 to Oct. Oct 29
Ages 5 & 6: 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Ages 7 & 8: 5:45 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
Ages 9 & 10: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturdays – Oct. 4 to Oct. Nov 1
Ages 11 – 13: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Ages 14 – 17: 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
In addition to Youth Instructional Programs, the Recreation Division anticipates launching Ball and Roller Hockey Leagues for both teens and adults this year.
Those interested in participating in the program, should complete the hockey general interest form online at Hoboken.recdesk.com to receive future program updates.
