New To Hockey

Who are these FAQs intended for?

The FAQs on this page are intended for parents of new players that are interested in getting started in hockey. These FAQs are intended to address some of the common questions we get asked about kids and parents that want to give the great game of hockey a try. 


Does my child have to know how to skate to play hockey at CCYHA?

It is important to have a basic level of skating skills (in hockey skates, not just figure skates) which will make your child's introduction to a hockey league more enjoyable. Skating is the foundation of hockey.

While our House League is a beginning level that is intended to teach our younger players the basic skills needed to succeed and to introduce them to the basics of hockey, it is important that your child have a basic level of skating skills (in hockey skates) prior to participating in the House League. Instructors at the Chiller rinks can confirm whether or not your child is ready for organized hockey.

Please be aware that at the 14U/Bantam level, checking is a part of hockey. Parents of new players at this age group should be fully aware of body contact and possible injury.

Where can my child learn to skate?

The OhioHealth Chiller runs a comprehensive Learn to Skate and Blue Jackets Hockey program. Classes are offered all year long. Generally, children are prepared to do our House League after completing the final session of Learn to Skate or the Blue Jackets Hockey League program. Instructors can confirm whether or not your child is ready for organized hockey

How do I know what level my child should play (2024-25)?

How long is the House hockey season?

The House season typically begins at the end of September/early October with evaluations. Games begin at in late October/early November. The season usually concludes at the end of February/early March with playoffs. 

How many days a week will my child have hockey and when?

CCYHA implements USA Hockey's American Development Model (ADM) program. Our House League player typically skates 2-3 times per week with practices during weekday evenings and a game during the weekend.

8U Mites and 10U Squirts,: For more information for programming for your 5- to 10-year-old, visit BlueJacketsHockeyLeague.com.

12U Peewees and 14U Bantams: Teams practice together and participate in the Columbus House Hockey league in which teams have games against other CCYHA teams or teams from neighboring associations.   Practices are primarily at the OhioHealth Chiller rinks in central Ohio. Games can be either Saturdays or Sundays and at any Chiller rink as games are against all associations.

When is registration open for House hockey?

House registration opens up on or about July 1st.  Many of our divisions are very popular and have filled up quickly in the past (less than 24 hours in some cases). There have been instances where we have been able to open up other sessions but most of the time, we are unable to do accommodate extra players so it is important to sign up early. Early bird discounts will be available for signing up early. Registration closes when spots are filled or late August (which ever comes first).

What equipment is needed for the House league?

Players should wear full protective gear in order to play safely and enjoy the sport.  Equipment includes the following:  stick • skates • shin pads • hockey pants • hockey gloves • protective cup • elbow pads • shoulder pads • helmet with mask.

Players interested in being a full-time goalie should purchase their own equipment as CCYHA does not typically provide equipment for full-time goalies due to the different sizes of the players and should get used to their own gear.

Detailed information on where to purchase or how to put on hockey equipment can be found our Equipment Page.

How are teams selected?

The season begins with conditioning sessions where coaches evaluate the participants on a variety of skills. Following the evaluations, the players are divided into what we hope will be equally skilled teams.

Can I register with a friend?

It is great to register with friends to play the great game of hockey. However, when it comes to team composition our priority is to have equally skilled teams so please do not request to be on the same team.  The good news is that since we implement the ADM program, many teams practice together.

What about soccer and other fall sports?

There is a short 2-3 week window where there is an overlap. We encourage children to participate in other activities and we understand that children may miss during this period. Communication with coaches is important for planning. 

How are the girls and boys divided up?

CCYHA House League programs are co-ed. We do try to put multiple girls together on one house team. If the numbers support it, we may have an all girls house team. CCYHA offers competitive all-girls travel or developments teams that plays surrounding communities/states for girls aged 10-19. 

Are scores kept during games?

12U Peewees and 14U Bantams: Scores are maintained and recorded on the Columbus House Hockey website in order to create the playoff brackets at the end of the season.

What if we want more ice time?

CCYHA will be offering a DEVELOPMENT team program for the 2024-25 season for CCYHA players registered in our 12U and 14U house program and Blue Jackets Hockey League players in the 8U and 10U programs. The Development team program offers higher caliber players in the CCYHA house program and the Blue Jackets Hockey League additional opportunities to develop their skills. Emphasis is on the continued growth of the player under the guidance of the Battery Hockey Academy and CCYHA coaches. There is a tryout for these teams and does incur additional costs to families. More information can be found on our Development Team Page.

In addition, the Chiller rinks and the Battery Academy offer additional programs year-around including private lessons, camps and travel teams. Note that participation in other programs other than CCYHA may prevent the player from participating in CCYHA sponsored activities.

What about Travel hockey?

Travel hockey is designed for children and families that desire a greater commitment in terms of travel, ice time, cost and skill development. Travel teams typically skate 2-4 times weekly and have a more extensive game and practice schedule. Players must tryout for a spot on the travel teams in the spring. More information can be found on our Travel Hockey Page.

Who do I contact if I am interested in coaching or helping out?

Our volunteer coaching applications are located under our Programs page starting in early July. We welcome volunteers as they are the foundation of our program. In addition to ice, the number of players that can participate is limited by the number of volunteer coaches. If you would be interested in volunteering in other capacities during the season please email us at ccyhainfo@gmail.com.

Still have questions

If after reading the information above you still have questions, feel free to email us and your questions will be routed to the appropriate person.

CCYHA Info

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