Programming U9 & Below (Innisfil Minor Hockey)

PrintProgramming U9 & Below

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association has created an Implementation Guide to support our member Centres with the delivery of the Programming U9 & Below including Seasonal Structure and Cross-Ice & Half-Ice game play.

Hockey Canada has established national guidelines to ensure development of hockey players at Initiation, U8 and U9 age divisions and it is important to fully understand and appreciate the benefits of age-appropriate programming and scaling the playing environment.

The OMHA’s Implementation Guide details seasonal structure, tiering, positional play as well as game format. These game play guidelines highlight the programming progression from Initiation through U8 to U9.

“Station-based practices, small area games, lightweight blue pucks and age-appropriate ice size ensure players are engaged and have the right start in their hockey experience,” said OMHA Executive Director Ian Taylor. “Scaling the game to match the age group allows young players the opportunity for more puck-touches which promotes greater opportunity for skill-development in puck-handling, shooting, skating, coordination and decision-making.”

The OMHA strongly believes in the benefits that Cross-Ice and Half-Ice hockey have to offer and look forward to continuing to provide our member Centres with resources to ensure the best hockey experience for players.