Extreme Ice Center — Attraction in Indian Trail

In Charlotte there is a big supply shortage in regards to hockey rinks. Please look at the other rink that teaches youth hockey before your come here. Yes this is a very nice rink. I am also sure its very successful financially so there is no real incentive for them to change anything. But their approach to youth hockey in my opion needs some changes. I wish there was more options for people who love hockey, maybe that would result in some changes at this place. This review is for anyone thinking of joining or trying out for this youth hockey program and is directed to owners and people running all the hockey programs at this rink. You are the ones in charge, you set the mission statement(is there one), policies , expectations, roles for the coaches. Hockey is a amazing sport and it should be developing players and fans who love it for their whole lifetime regardless of their skill level. Unfortunately, like many youth sports the people "teaching" it now or days think that coaching is playing general manager/personnel director with their players. Well its not. Your job should be to: teach skills, explain the game, let kids make mistakes and then help them learn from them. That is what youth sports is suppossed to be. Developing sport specific skills, leadership and self confidence. Kids can't learn if they are not given a chance to actually play. The goals at this rink seems to be teach some hockey(that's hit or miss with the coach you get) and win. That's as deep as it goes. If you have a elite hockey player or athelet this place might be a good fit. If your child does make a travel team, unless they are one of the better players, they will not play that much. And guess what if your kid does not play much do think he will get better(probably not). Do you think they will enjoy hockey and develop good self esteem? Probably not. Unfortunately the issues of coaches playing General Manager with playing time extends into the HOUSE LEAGUE here as well. I have no doubt this place is developing a few elite players as well as a handfull of good players but its also turning off/pushing away a bunch of people from the sport. Hopefully someone will read this and decided to make a change Unfortunately, there are not a lot of options when it comes to hockey in the Charlotte area. But at least check out your other choices before you entrust your young player to this place as you may do more harm than...

7-10-23: There have been some welcomed changes at Extreme Ice. Hockey Adult League management made some changes to Men's League teams, which placed the highest scoring/performing teams into next level competition teams👍🏼 The Tavern has a new manager, Adam, who is doing a great job of offering rotating food and beverage specials. Still loving the delicious regular menu items---wings, chicken tenders, fries (krinkle cut or fresh cut breaded), hand-held sandwiches. Continue to see The Puddle (small rink) rented for private parties or private skating practices. Continue to see hockey clubs holding championship games. Lots of unique activities scheduled for public skate nights. The Arcade is seeing some action. The ADA compliant elevator is up and running to provide assistance for patrons to gain access to the upstairs viewing areas, The Tavern and The Arcade.

8-5-22: We continue to enjoy watching our son play hockey in the adult men's leagues at XI. The Center Ice Tavern, under new management by Rich, has really taken the Center IceTavern to a whole new level. Daily food and beverage specials reflect the gastronomical preferences of the players and local regulars. Rich, Adam, Anthony and the entire staff strive to make your Tavern experience a great one. The Tavern has a variety of menu options for adults and kids. There is a variety of soft drinks, beers (bottles, cans, draft), wine, seltzers, and a full bar. Check the website for the Center Ice Tavern menu for in-person dining or carryout. If you're at XI for public skate, go upstairs and check it out.

2 yrs ago: Really great hockey venue! 2 full size rinks and "the puddle" (small rink available to rent for private events). Frequently visit to watch the Beer League games (fan of The Ogilthorpes). This weekend we came to experience the State Championship games. AWESOME EXPERIENCE!!! We also enjoyed the great food and beverage selections in the Center Ice Tavern. XI is implementing and practicing safe pandemic...

Staff and coaches are exceptionally friendly, supportive, and professional, creating a welcoming atmosphere for skaters of all levels. The pro shop is outstanding, with techs who eagerly assist, answer questions, and help you try on gear to find the best fit. Additionally, the facility offers excellent opportunities and resources for skaters to develop their skills.

While the overall experience at the rink is excellent, the following is shared to help skaters make informed decisions regarding coaching with Kirsten Gilbert: Arrived late to a scheduled lesson and ultimately canceled the lesson, stating it was not financially worthwhile, while the skater, having already paid admission, waited on the ice.

Canceled a separate lesson after the skater had once again paid admission and was waiting on the ice during the scheduled time.

Required full payment from the skater for a cancellation despite never previously discussing a cancellation policy.

Provided conflicting feedback regarding skate blade mounting, first suggesting blade was incorrectly mounted, then later stating the blade was fine despite no changes.

Repeatedly ignored direct questions from the skater, even when another coach tried to facilitate communication.

Refused to record the skater for feedback, citing phone issues, yet frequently referenced YouTube videos during lessons.

Provided inconsistent coaching instructions between lessons and often seemed unaware of or forgot material previously covered; when questioned, blamed the skater’s memory rather than addressing the inconsistencies directly.

This information is shared solely for transparency and to assist others in choosing the best...