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The U7 program aims to positively introduce 5 to 6-year-olds to the sport through a progressive learn-to-play hockey curriculum. It focuses on providing a positive experience, emphasizing fair play, cooperation, and skill development.
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Frequently asked Questions
What to expect?
U7 will be incorporating practice drills, skill sessions, and informal games like shinny/scrimmages, freeze tag, and obstacle courses. The program introduces and refines skating, puck control, passing, and shooting skills gradually, prioritizing fun and skill development. Play will be "Cross Ice" as per Hockey Canada Mandated Guidelines. The lightweight "Blue" pucks are used. For more information, see our governing body OMHA's website.
Below chart from the OMHA website, current as of 2024.
Below chart from the OMHA website, current as of 2024.
To enhance skill development, emphasis will be placed on small-area games, station-based practices, and skill-focused drills in training sessions. We have no full-time goaltenders at this age group. See the below chart which indicates the focus for skills in the U7 program:
Above chart from Hockey Canada website, current as of 2024.
What Age Group is U7?
What Equipment do players Need?
OMHA provides a great resource for hockey equipment as a starting point.
- Other items we suggest: water bottle
- What we provide: One home and away jersey to be returned end of season.
How often do U7's play and what is the schedule?
U7 will play mostly at home ice (Haldimand Memorial Arena). We play twice a week for 50 minutes. There may be opportunities to travel to neighbouring arenas for games or jamborees. For Current schedule, go to our schedule webpage
Do u7's play games or tournaments?
The emphasis at the U7 level is on creating a positive and fun learning environment, introducing basic hockey skills, and allowing young players to enjoy the sport. While formal game play may not be the primary focus, some modified or small-area games may be available to provide a game-like experience. No score is kept, and game sheets are optional. Rules such as icing or offside are not enforced.
U7 do not participate in tournaments, although there may be opportunities to participate in jamborees. Tournaments are competitive events with scorekeeping, while jamborees are often more about participation, skill development, and fostering a positive and friendly atmosphere among players. The coach will reach out to players if a jamboree is available during the season.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding U7 hockey check with the OMHA official documentation.
U7 do not participate in tournaments, although there may be opportunities to participate in jamborees. Tournaments are competitive events with scorekeeping, while jamborees are often more about participation, skill development, and fostering a positive and friendly atmosphere among players. The coach will reach out to players if a jamboree is available during the season.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding U7 hockey check with the OMHA official documentation.
Are there any prerequisites to join u7?
Players do not need to have previous experience or need to “move up” from a previous division (such as U5). New players and all skill levels are welcome!
WHEN IS REGISTRATION?