Programming for U9 and Below (Oro Thunder Minor Hockey)

PrintProgramming for U9 and Below
U9, U8, and U7 Hockey Programming  

These hockey programs, focus on introducing young children to the sport of hockey emphasizing skill development, fun, fair play and competition.  
 
U7, U8 and U9 programs will include structured practices starting in October and then incorporate half-ice games at home and away within Simcoe Region with continued structured practices designed to teach fundamental skills like skating, puck control, passing, and shooting.

Note: Teams will be registered for jamborees by their coaches for selected weekends throughout the season providing additional half ice games emphasizing further skill development and team building.

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) requires parents to complete the Parent Respect in Sport online course for their child to be eligible to play.


Key aspects of U9 and below hockey programs:


Divisions by Birth Date:
  • U9 League - 2017
  • U8 League - 2018
  • U7 League - 2019 and 2020
  • Thunder Bolts - 2021 and 2022
  • MD Teams - Based on registration numbers, we hope to be able to offer MD teams at the U8 and U9 divisions and hold tryouts in September. Tryout fees will be $100. 
When will the season start?
U7 - October (Date to be advised)
U8 - September (Date to be advised)
U9 - September (Date to be advised)

Which days of the week?
Saturdays and Sundays, early morning ice times.

What can we expect at the start of the season?
The first few sessions of the season will be utilized to get the hockey players on the ice working on skating and evaluating their current skill set. The evaluations will help us tier the players to ensure they are placed at the right level with similar players to ensure they will see progress and enjoy their time on the ice. After evaluations, your player will be assigned to a team and a head coach. 

What happens once my player has been assigned to a team?
You will be contacted to advise which team your player is on and who the head coach is. Please subscribe to the team calendar so that you are aware of the ice times that have been scheduled for your team.

Do you need On Ice Volunteers?
Yes, if you are interested, please email [email protected]. There are requirements to volunteer including Police Check and Vulnerable Sectors.

Does my player need full equipment, is there a list of OMHA required equipment?
Yes, full equipment is mandatory. Click Here To View OMHA Required Equipment

What can my player look forward to?
        • Skill Development: Programs focus on developing fundamental motor patterns, skating skills, puck handling, passing, and shooting.
        • Half-Ice Games for U7, U8 and U9: To maximize participation and skill development, U9 is currently planned to be played on a half-ice surface.
        •  Fun and Engagement: The primary goal is to create a positive and enjoyable experience for young players, fostering a love for the sport. 
        •  Coaching: Volunteer Coaches will deliver age-appropriate instruction and create a supportive environment that emphasizes teamwork, fair play, and sportsmanship

    Note: Game play for the U9 age-group (8-year-olds) will be Half-Ice during the first half of the season and transition to Full-Ice during the second half of the season.

  • If you have any additional questions, please email [email protected]

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