Winter is just around the corner, and with it, the return of Hockey in New Jersey to Jersey City.

Founded in Newark in 2003, Hockey in New Jersey provides children the chance to play the often expensive sport at no cost through partnerships with the New Jersey Devils and the National Hockey League's Hockey is for Everyone initiative.

HNJ, which now has programs in Newark, Jersey City and Englewood, provides free gear, ice time, coaching, life skills training, and academic assistance.

In the run-up to a new season at the Pershing Field Ice Rink in Jersey City, HNJ will host an equipment handout Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the rink, located at 201 Central Ave.

HNJ Jersey City is free for any city resident between the ages of 10 and 18. Proof of residency is required while registering.

Participants take part in "learn to play" clinics, house leagues, life skills training that include nutrition, sport injury prevention, off-ice conditioning, and sport Psychology. Participants can also enroll in HNJ's week-long summer camp.

For schedules and to reserve a spot for HNJ Jersey City, visit HockeyinNJ.com. All registered players must report to an equipment handout to receive their gear to begin playing.

For more information contact HNJ Program Manager Mike Liu at mliu@hockeyinnj.com.