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New To Hockey Questions:

How do we get on the ice to try hockey? 

For players 10 and older, prior skating education is important. Please contact Registrar@whatcomhockey.com or TryHockey@whatcomhockey.com to discuss this opportunity.

For kids 8 and younger, you can dive in and register for our Mites hockey program (see below) or take a more gradual approach.

If you/the kids are uncertain if hockey is for them, we recommend participating in one of our twice yearly, Try Hockey for Free Sessions which allow kids the chance to try hockey in a safe and fun environment. We provide the ice, the hockey equipment (subject to availability) and the coaches, you provide the kid!

 If you had fun at our Try Hockey session, but would like to get more time on the ice before you make a decision, you can register your player for one of our Mites Play Hockey Mini Camps to let your kid get fully emersed in the Mites Hockey experience.    These 4-5 session camps are low-cost and low commitment and give your family the opportunity to see if hockey is the right sport for you.   Protective equipment, icetime and coaching are included.  Space is extremely limited. We'll offer an opportunity to enter the regular Mites hockey program at the conclusion of the camp.  

When do I need to register?

Registration is open now. Early Bird rates apply until August 6th. After September 1, when teams are set, we do our best to accommodate new players, but we cannot guarantee a spot on our teams. Please see our registration page for additional information.

What does it cost?

Please refer to the Registration page for current registration fees.

How long does the season last?

For kids 8 and under, the season begins October 1, or alternatively can begin January 1 (Mites program only - subject to availability) and ends mid-March. We have a 3 week break over the winter break. 

I think my child is ready for introductory hockey, what are practices like?

Practices are held twice weekly for 1 hour. 

All Novice players are coached and practice under USA Hockey’s  American Development Model (ADM) of instruction.  The ADM methodology uses multiple stations, focused on familiar games and drills –lasting about 5-8 minutes at a time.  By utilizing multiple stations across the sheet of ice – it allows for differing skills to be emphasized from station to station.  This pace and constant movement helps to match the limited attention span of our young hockey stars, and keep them focused and challenged.  But the most key aspect of the ADM, is that it keeps the coach to player ratio at a critical 1 coach to 4-6 players.  This allows for critical individual instruction while also allowing the instructors to flex the difficulty of the drills as players of varying skill levels rotate through their station.

Where do I find equipment?

For players 8 and under, WCAHA can provide seasonal rentals of protective equipment. Cost is $60 per season plus $150 deposit.  Players families must provide their own jock/jill protector, mouth guard, skates and stick.  Alternatively, you can elect to purchase equipment.  

There are a number of new and used hockey equipment stores in Surrey and Langley, BC and Pure Hockey has a store in Lynnwood, WA.

If I want to purchase equipment, how much should I expect to pay to outfit my player? 

Do I need to buy all new equipment?

Other members in our organization are outfitting their U9 players for between $175 and $250 dollars if purchasing gently used gear.  Note – the only piece of gear that you should consider purchasing new is a helmet/cage combo.  Each helmet has an HECC certification sticker, with an expiry date clearly marked.  By USA Hockey rules, no one can participate on the ice with expired helmet. 

Where do we practice?

All practices occur at the Bellingham Sportsplex, located at 1225 Civic Field Way, Bellingham, WA 98229

Where do we play games?

We play Jamboree games at the Bellingham Sportsplex, we travel within the Puget Sound as well as the lower mainland British Columbia, depending upon the age group. 

What do I do if I have a concern that I want to take to the Board of Directors?

Please talk directly to any Board member if there is an association concern that you would like to discuss. You may also request to attend a Board Meeting to speak to the Board by contacting secretary@whatcomhockey.com. The formal process includes completing a Complaint Resolution form

 

How do I access information about Board Meetings and WCAHA Financial Reports?

You can access WCAHA's public information drive by clicking here. If you can't find what you are looking for or have other questions, please reach out to secretary@whatcomhockey.com

 

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PO Box 28938
Bellingham, Washington 98228

(415) 275-0616