skip navigation

New to Hockey or New to the Rapids

Overview of Ice Hockey in Central Oregon

There are 2 formal youth  ice hockey programs in Bend; the Rapids and the ‘Rec’ (recreation) League. 

Bend Rapids

  • USA Hockey sanctioned program run by the Bend Rapids Steering Committee.
  • Competitive travel program providing in-state and out-of-state game & tournament experiences.
  • 5 month season from Nov - March
  • Morning practices (2x/week) at the Bend Pavilion for all age divisions except 8U/1U which have 1 morning and 1 afternoon practice.
  • Age divisions 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, and 18U
  • Tryouts or Evaluations at 12U, 14U,  and 18U.  
  • Volunteer requirement - 10 hours per family
  • Season registration opens in early Summer and closes mid-Summer.

 

Rec League

  • The Rec league is run by Bend Park and Recreation Department (aka: BPRD). 
  • Non-travel program 
  • 3 month season from Jan - March
  • Afternoon practices at the Pavilion (usually 2x/week)
  • Age divisions 8U, 11U, and 14U
  • No Tryouts
  • No volunteer requirement
  • Season registration opens in November

Which program is right for your kid?

If your child has little to no skating or ice hockey experience, then BPRD programs are for you. Many of the Bend Rapids athletes started with BPRD's Learn to Play Ice Hockey program. They later joined the Rapids to pursue a higher degree of competition. 

If your child has experience, but you are on the fence about which program to choose  we're happy to help. Email us and we'll get you sorted out. If needed, we can put you in touch with the Rapids Coach for your child's age division.