Philosophy of Youth Hockey

Enjoyment and recreational benefits are the major focus of new guidelines for youth hockey issued by the Board of Directors, USA Hockey. More than 80 percent of over 33,000 registered teams play in the age classifications 17-or-under, prompting the Youth Council of USA Hockey to emphasize the educational and recreational values of ice hockey.

USA Hockey recommended guidelines for youth hockey encourage a non-competitive environment in which children and youth can learn the basic skills without the distractions that are often associated with an over-emphasis on winning. Mastery of the fundamental skills and the fun of playing are essential to the development of a lifelong interest in hockey. Programs must be conducted to accommodate the number of new players who wish to play hockey and to reduce the number who become disenchanted and drop out.

These voluntary guidelines are directed at children's programs, but they must be implemented by adults if they are to influence youth hockey programs. Coaches, officials, parents, administrators, and rink operators must all do their part to ensure that the USA Hockey philosophy and the following guidelines are upheld:

Through Midget Age

• Team schedules should include at least two practices for every game.
• The recommended maximum number of games per season is: (A) 15 games for Mites, (B) 20 games for Squirts, (C) 30 games for PeeWees, (D) 35 games for Bantams, and (E) 45 games for Midgets.
• Starting times for games should be no later than:
  Mites and Squirts - 7:00 p.m.
  PeeWees - 8:00 p.m.
  Bantams - 9:00 p.m.
  Midgets - 10:00 p.m.
  Any practice time scheduled before 3:00 p.m. should be set so that the earliest times are reserved for the older age classifications.
• Scoring records should be de-emphasized at the Mite, Squirt, and PeeWee classifications.
• Awards should be inexpensive and based on significant achievements. The most gratifying award any player can receive is the joy that comes from skill development that contributes to team success.
• An opportunity to practice and play under the direction of a good coach is the primary prerequisite to skill development. Players should be given ample opportunities to develop to the limits of their potential, regardless of their abilities.
• The recruitment of players, on a wide-spread geographic basis, for the establishment of Youth Division ``elite teams'', whose purpose is to win games and championships and to satisfy the personal self-interests of adults and organizations, is discouraged.
• It is recommended that adult volunteers place a primary emphasis on the formal education of players, and a de-emphasis on excessive competition and professionalism in the youth age classifications.