Getting Started
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Fun
- We develop, grow, and compete with the joy of play while building lifelong bonds of friendship.
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Safety
- We understand, honour, and promote the rules in a spirit that leads to the well-being of hockey participants.
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Community
- Our game gives us the gift of togetherness and belonging. In this space, we support one another, collectively benefit from our shared pride, and strengthen Saskatchewan.
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Respect
- Our game is honoured through goodwill, leadership, and dignity.
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Inclusivity
- Hockey can be for everyone, and this is demonstrated through a welcoming environment.
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Passion
- A love for the game leads to the discovery of identity, pride, belonging, and character building.
![](https://hockeysask.ca/pub/./About/hockey-sask-values-2022-2025.png)
Children can play hockey as early as five years old (U7) but players can join at any age beyond that. Some families choose to develop hockey skills by registering their young child in CanSkate, ball hockey or lacrosse programs in order to develop skills before they enter ice hockey.
Para Hockey programs are also available through clubs around Saskatchewan. Para Hockey is a modified game for players with certain physical disabilities.
Myth: Players have to start when they are in the U7 age group.
Fact: Players can join hockey at any age from U7 and beyond!
Minor Hockey Age Division Chart (2024-25 Season):
Year of Birth | Age on Dec. 31, 2024 | Age Division | Formerly Known As |
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2018 | 6 or Under | Under-7 (U7) | Initiation |
2017 | 7 | Under-9 (U9) | Novice |
2016 | 8 | Under-9 (U9) | Novice |
2015 | 9 | Under-11 (11) | Atom |
2014 | 10 | Under-11 (11) | Atom |
2013 | 11 | Under-13 (U13) | Peewee |
2012 | 12 | Under-13 (U13) | Peewee |
2011 | 13 | Under-15 (U15) | Bantam |
2010 | 14 | Under-15 (U15) | Bantam |
2009 | 15 | Under-16 (U16) | N/A |
2009 | 15 | Under-18 (U18) | Midget |
2008 | 16 | Under-18 (U18) | Midget |
2007 | 17 | Under-18 (U18) | Midget |
2006-2005-2004 | 18-19-20 | Junior |
Registration and team fees will vary by association and the following will be included:
- Approximately 15-20 week season
- 1-2 sessions per week (more for older players)
- Team uniform (jersey and socks)
- Team celebration events
- Team photo
- Insurance through Hockey Canada Highly trained and screened coaches
- Hockey Saskatchewan guidance
Hockey Saskatchewan and Hockey Canada take the safety of players seriously. We can only enjoy the game if it is safe and leads to healthy development. The following actions are in place to ensure safe programs are offered:
- The Long-Term Player Development model is used to ensure athletes are progressing skills in age-appropriate domains.
- Only coaches trained in skill development and respect modules are eligible to coach.
- Policies to identify, acknowledge, and respond to player concussions.
- Policies in place to prohibit maltreatment and discrimination in the game.
- Mandatory equipment is required for all participants to reinforce physical safety.
- Certified Officials who oversee game play and enforce the rules of the game.
- Coaches, team managers, officials, and those in leadership roles are screened through reference and criminal record checks and take respect-based training.
REGISTRATION & TEAM PLACEMENT
- Associations typically hold registration in the month of June to prepare for team placements in the fall. Registration is typically done online or through community registration events.
- Optional warm-up camps are often offered before the season begins.
- Older players will have an evaluation process in order to create balanced teams.
PRACTICES
- Practices are typically held once a week where players can work on progressive skill development.
- Coaches weave in fun activities for team building and skill development.
GAMES, TOURNAMENTS & JAMBOREES
- When the season is underway, teams will typically play 1-2 games per week.
- Games are modified depending on the age group.
- Older teams will attend one or more tournaments during the season. Some will require travel.
- Younger teams will partake in Jamborees instead of tournaments with a focus on fun.
TEAM FUN
Many teams will have celebration and team-building events off the ice such as socials, fundraising, community service, parent/family nights, and wind-ups to enhance the team experience.
PARENT/GUARDIAN VOLUNTEERS
Parents/Guardians are invited to make the most of the season by helping with roles such as coaching, team management, fundraising, snacks, or social media.
This video demonstrates how to put on hockey equipment
The "Where Fun Wins" initiative is designed to support new hockey coaches in fostering a positive and enjoyable experience for young players. We have three key resources to help you get started:
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New Coaches Webpage: This is your go-to hub for all things coaching. Whether you're looking for tips, drills, or guidance on how to manage a team, this page has everything you need to succeed as a coach.
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Certification Requirements Webpage: Coaching comes with responsibilities, and it's important to be properly certified. This page outlines the certifications required at various levels, ensuring you're fully prepared and compliant with all regulations.
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Coaching Clinic Sign-Up Webpage: Ready to take your coaching to the next level? Our coaching clinics offer hands-on learning experiences. Visit this page to find and register for an upcoming clinic near you.
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Under-7 Coach Mentorship Webpage: If you're coaching young players, this page offers specialized mentorship and support to help you effectively engage and develop players in the Under-7 age group.
Explore these resources and become the coach who makes hockey fun and rewarding for every player!
- Visit Hockey Saskatchewan's Zone Map to locate your hockey association or para hockey club.
- Find “Registration” on your local association’s website.
- Follow the steps required for your association. Typically there will be initial registration fees, then an installment of team fees once the season starts.
- Source equipment for your player
- Enjoy your first season of Hockey!
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR REGISTRATION
For eligible families seeking financial support for entering their children in sport programs, Jumpstart and KidSport foundations offer grant opportunities.
Kick off the hockey season right in Saskatchewan with the NHL/NHLPA First Shift program! This limited-time opportunity is perfect for families new to hockey, offering a fun, safe, and affordable introduction to the game. For just $299, your child will gear up with head-to-toe BAUER equipment and enjoy six weeks of on-ice excitement. Don't miss your chance to join the fun and discover why hockey is Canada's favorite sport!