Hockey Programs
Bird Ice Arena is home to OHIO's four-time ACHA national champion Men's Hockey team, and open to every level of player, from complete beginners to seasoned competitors. Whether you're looking for a casual pickup game, a full league season, or a structured morning skate, there's a hockey program here for you.
Recreational Programs
Drop In Hockey
Open to all levels · no registration required
| When | Sundays, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Season | September 27 – December 20 |
| No Session | October 11 |
| Entry Fee | $10 at the front desk |
| Equipment | Full hockey equipment required (see policies below) |
Drop In Hockey Policies and Procedures
- No body checking.
- No slap shots.
- No wrestling or fighting inside Bird Arena at any time.
- Do not enter the ice until the resurfacer has cleared the ice and the doors have been shut.
- No alcohol or tobacco products are permitted inside Bird Arena at any time.
- Vandalism may result in prosecution and/or loss of access to Bird Arena and all programs.
- Bird Arena is not responsible for lost, damaged, or missing items.
- All participants must sign a waiver before entering the ice.
- Full equipment is required. (helmet, body pads, neck guard, mouth guard, gloves, shin pads, specialized goalie gear, etc.) Equipment is not provided by Bird Ice Arena. Skates available for rental at the front desk.
- Helmets are mandatory for all participants and any players on the bench.
- Report any ice or rink damage to Bird Ice Arena staff immediately
- Report all injuries to Bird Ice Arena Staff immediately. First Aid is available from all Bird Arena staff.
Stick & Puck
Open to all levels · no registration required
| When | Mondays, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Season | September 21 – December 21 |
Morning Hockey
Early ice · before your day begins
| When | Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 a.m. |
|---|---|
| Season | September 29 – December 10 |
| No Session | November 26 |
Youth & Learn to Play Hockey
For young players · ages vary
Bird Ice Arena is the proud home of Athens Youth Hockey Association (AYHA), which runs youth hockey and Learn to Play Hockey sessions in collaboration with the Columbus Blue Jackets. For schedules, registration, and age group information, visit the AYHA website directly.
Good to Know Before You Visit
Ice cuts
All hockey sessions include a 10-minute ice cut at the end. All skaters must clear the ice at least 10 minutes before the session ends.
Equipment requirements
Full hockey equipment is required for all hockey programs: helmet, neck guard, body pads, mouth guard, gloves, shin pads, and skates. Specialized goalie gear required for goalies. Equipment is not provided by Bird Arena. Skate rentals are available at the front desk.
OHIO's ACHA D2 Men's Ice Hockey Club Team competes out of Bird Arena throughout the season.
LUG Hockey League
Full season · jerseys included
OHIO has partnered with LUG Sports to bring a college hockey league experience to campus. Players get a full season of 13+ games, replica team jerseys, certified officials, and a shot at competing against other college champions. Join with your own team or sign up as a free agent to be placed on one.
| Players | 20,000+ across the U.S. and Canada |
|---|---|
| Includes | 13+ games · jerseys · officials · team gear |