Ages 7-8
U9: Fundamentals
Developing skills and learning the basic rules of the game.
What to Expect
Players start to look like hockey players. Using the "half-ice" format allows for more puck touches and tighter turns. Positions are introduced loosely, but rotation is key.
Skill Development
Explosive starts, crossovers, and backward skating become a focus. Passing is introduced, though "swarm ball" is still common.
Goalies
In U9, there are no full-time goalies. Kids rotate creating a chance for everyone to try the gear. It is a great way to find out who loves the net.