Ages 11-12
U13: Refining Skills
Strategy, systems, and increased competitive intensity.
Atmosphere Change
The game gets faster and systems (power play, penalty kill) are introduced. This is often where "AA" or "AAA" streams split significantly from House/A hockey.
What to Expect
Bigger physical differences between players appear. Skating speed and edge work are the biggest separators at this level.
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Did You Know?
"Many NHL stars say U13 was when they first realized they wanted to pursue hockey seriously."
Key Milestones
- Slapshots (intro)
- Gap control (defense)
- Cycling the puck
- Checking (body contact rules vary)