Photo courtesy of Nick Wosika
If you or your child are excited to try hockey but aren't sure how to get started, you have come to the right place!
As the governing body and premier developer of hockey players in Minnesota since 1947, helping new players start hockey is one of our main priorities!
The first step is figuring out what age level and hockey program is right for you and your child. Minnesota Hockey has a variety of programs for all players and abilities. Here is a quick introduction to each of them along with links to more information on getting involved:
Each November and February, USA Hockey, Minnesota Hockey and local associations partner to host Try Hockey For Free events throughout the state.
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Most associations provide one or more of the entry level options below to help new players learn basic skills. These programs are the most common starting point for new hockey players.
A Learn-to-Skate program helps young skaters to become more confident on their skates before introducing a hockey stick and puck to the lessons. These programs can be offered by youth associations, local figure skating clubs or the city's parks and recreation department.
A Learn-to-Play or Intro to Hockey program focuses on skating skills, but also teaches the basic skills of stickhandling, shooting and passing. These are usually offered by the local youth hockey association.
An age 8 & under or Mite program is usually offered by the local youth hockey association and should include a level of play geared to entry-level kids.
To find and contact an association near you, click here.
While each hockey association and arena structure their programs slightly different, most of them follow the same timeline for the season. For beginning players at the Mite/8U level, the season usually runs from November through February with a break for Christmas. At the older age levels, hockey starts a little earlier and finishes with playoffs. Here is a look at a typical youth hockey schedule.
Aug.: Registration opens
Sept.-Oct.: Registration closes, tryouts and Learn to Play or Learn to Skate programs occur
Nov.: Try Hockey For Free Day, practices start for youngest ages and games begin for older players
Dec.-Jan.: Hockey is in full swing
Feb.-March: Teams participate in playoffs, end of the season tournaments and season winds down
April-May: Associations host end of season banquets and board meetings
June-Aug.: Summer clinics and camps are available for those interested