Program Overview
The Initiation Program is a fun, progressive, learn to play teaching curriculum for children aged 3 - 7 yrs. Children learn through participating in practice drills and informal modified games (such as cross-ice hockey, relays, and obstacle courses). There are 3 levels in U7 (CHIP) - G1, G2, and G3.
Our programming is based on and follows the Hockey Canada Long Term Player Development Model. Learn more HERE.
Please review the FAQ's below and do not hesitate to contact
U7 (CHIP) Director with any questions!
FAQ
What will my child learn at the U7 (CHIP) Program?
They will learn to skate. They will learn balance, agility and puck control. And, most of all, they will have fun!
What equipment will they need?
Hockey Skates
CSA Approved Hockey Helmet (no bicycle helmets allowed)
Neck Guard (mandatory)
Mouth Guard (mandatory)
Shoulder Pads
Elbow Pads
Hockey Gloves
Jock or Jill
Hockey Pants
Shin Pads
Hockey Socks (extra)
Jersey (practice)
Hockey Stick
How many times will we be on the ice?
U7 (CHIP) players are on the ice approximately 37 times.
When will the ice times be?
Most weeks, you will be on the ice 1 night during the week and once on the weekend.
Where will we be playing?
The U7 (CHIP) program is run from the Hillsburgh arena.
When will my practices be?
Tuesday evenings & Saturday mornings
My child is 7 - should they play CHIP or Novice Local League?
If your child is 7 and has not yet been introduced to the fundamentals of hockey, you may want to start them in U7 (CHIP). We encourage all kids new to hockey to participate. If your child turns 7 this year and has some skating experience, you should attend the local league grading and the staff can recommend if your child should play U7 (CHIP) or Novice. Although most kids are ages 4 to 6, we have included kids as young as 3 who have benefited from the program.
Can I be an on-ice volunteer?
Yes! We welcome on-ice volunteers - no experience required! Many of our newest skaters will need some helping hands when they first enter the program. To volunteer, you will need to attend an online certification course called Respect in Sport (previously called Speak Out), complete the Gender Identity training and complete a Police Check before you can go on the ice with the kids.
The success of the
U7 (CHIP) program relies on parents and family members to assist on the ice. The ice staff works in a team environment to deliver the curriculum outlined by the OMHA.
Please fill out this
Volunteer Form to get involved!