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The basics:

• Program open to Hoboken youth ages 5–17, starting Oct. 1
• Hosted at renovated Johnny Ray McDonald Jr. Hockey Rink
• New Jersey Devils donated $230K in rink upgrades and equipment
• Registration opens Sept. 5; all gear provided

The City of Hoboken and the New Jersey Devils are teaming up to launch the city’s new Youth Ball Hockey Program.

The collaboration aims to teach Hoboken youth (ages 5–17) the fundamentals of hockey and gameplay in a supportive, co-ed environment. The program will take place in October at the recently renovated Johnny Ray McDonald Jr. Hockey Rink at the Multi-Service Center.

The rink bears the name of the late McDonald Jr. The longtime coach worked for the city’s Recreation Department. He was instrumental in launching Hoboken’s first children’s instructional hockey program, among other sports. The city finished rink renovations earlier this year through a partnership with the Devils. The team donated $230,000 in upgrades and equipment.

Additionally, the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund funded the work, in part. That donation also included $10,000 for part-time coaches and staff to help the city’s Recreation Division build the new ball hockey program for youth and teens.

New opportunities

“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,” said Mayor Ravi Bhalla. “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.

“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.”

Devils and Prudential Center Chief Marketing Officer Jillian Frechette said partnering with the city and Hoboken Recreation to kick off the 2025-26 hockey season is an exciting opportunity to grow the game year-round.

“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,” said Frechette. “We’re incredibly thankful for the NHL, NHLPA, Mayor Bhalla, and City of Hoboken’s unwavering support.”

Key things to know:

• Registration opens Sept. 5 at newjerseydevils.com/hobokenhockey
• 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 Devils
• Qualified coaching staff will lead the program, along with special appearances by Devils alumni
• Designed to accommodate a wide range of age groups
• Sessions will take place weekly from Oct. 1–Nov. 1
• Beyond Youth Instructional Programs, the Recreation Division also anticipates launching Ball and Roller Hockey Leagues for both teens and adults this year

Frechette added, “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.”