Get in the Game With the WBS Penguins DEK Hockey Program

Quick answer: The WBS Penguins DEK hockey program is an accessible, beginner-friendly initiative that teaches the fundamentals of hockey. Played on foot with a ball instead of skates and a puck, it offers youth camps, leagues, and adult games without the high cost of traditional ice hockey gear.

Hockey is a fast-paced, thrilling sport that builds character, endurance, and lifelong friendships. Many young fans watch the professionals glide across the ice and immediately want to grab a stick themselves. However, the cost of ice time and specialized equipment can sometimes act as a barrier for new players.

That is where the WBS Penguins DEK hockey program steps in. We designed this program as an accessible entry point for anyone wanting to learn the game. It delivers all the excitement of traditional hockey directly to the community, bypassing the need for skates, heavy padding, or ice rinks.

What Is DEK Hockey and How Does It Differ From Ice Hockey?

Dek hockey, often referred to as ball hockey or street hockey, is a variation of traditional ice hockey. Instead of lacing up skates and gliding across a frozen rink, athletes play on foot wearing standard athletic sneakers. The games take place on a specialized indoor or outdoor plastic tiled surface known as a “dek.”

Players use a specialized low-bounce ball rather than a heavy rubber puck. This non-checking team sport requires only basic equipment like a helmet, gloves, and a stick. Because it eliminates the need for expensive ice hockey gear, dek hockey provides a much more accessible and affordable way for families to get involved in the sport.

Why Should Families Choose the WBS Penguins DEK Hockey Program?

The WBS Penguins host vibrant dek hockey programs at the Toyota Sports Plex in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Our primary focus is on teaching fundamental skills, improving physical fitness, and fostering a strong sense of teamwork.

Choose the Penguins hockey program if you want your child to learn proper stickhandling, passing, shooting, and game rules in a structured, beginner-friendly environment. It serves as a perfect instructional clinic for those looking to play strictly in sneakers while still experiencing the thrill of competitive team sports.

What Are the Key Highlights of the Penguins Hockey Program?

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins offer a variety of core programs tailored to different age groups and skill levels.

How Are the Youth Leagues Structured for Young Players?

For players looking for consistent gameplay, our youth leagues operate throughout the spring and summer seasons. We organize these leagues into strict age-based divisions, including U9, U11, U13, and U15 categories. This structure ensures that children compete against peers of similar size and developmental stages.

Are There Pick-Up and Adult Leagues Available for Older Players?

Dek hockey is not just for kids. The WBS Penguins offer several options for adult skaters wanting to stay active. Choose the draft-style “D” level league if you are a beginner looking to learn the ropes. 

For more experienced adults, we offer competitive B and C level divisions, alongside flexible drop-in pick-up games.

Ready to Hit the DEK With the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins?

DEK hockey delivers incredible cardiovascular exercise, sharpens hand-eye coordination, and builds a welcoming community of local sports fans. Joining a local league gives players of all ages a healthy outlet for competition and skill development.

We encourage all young hockey fans and families to explore the WBS Penguins DEK hockey program today. Grab your sneakers, pick up a stick, and discover your love for the game. Visit the Toyota Sports Plex website or contact the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins front office to find more details and sign up for our upcoming sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions About DEK Hockey

What equipment do I need to start playing DEK hockey?

You only need basic athletic sneakers, a specialized DEK hockey stick, a helmet, and protective gloves. This minimal gear requirement makes the sport highly affordable compared to traditional ice hockey.

Who can participate in the Penguins hockey program?

The program accommodates everyone from young beginners aged 4 to 15 in our summer camps, all the way up to adults participating in our draft-style and competitive leagues.

Where do the WBS Penguins host their DEK hockey leagues?

All core programs, camps, and leagues take place at the Toyota Sports Plex in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, which features specialized plastic tiled surfaces designed specifically for dek hockey.