U7 Program (Initiation)
What is the Hockey Canada "Timbits" U7 Program (formerly, Initiation Program)?
Hockey Canada developed the U7 Program to make the first contact with hockey a safe and positive experience. It is a structured, learn-to-play hockey program designed to introduce beginners to the game's basic skills. It enables participants to become contributing members of a team effort, develop self-confidence, and experience a sense of personal achievement. These goals are achieved in an atmosphere of fun and fair play.
Core to the U7 Program is a progressive, learn-to-play teaching curriculum. Children learn through participating in practice drills and informal modified games. The program consists of four phases of instruction, designed for any entry-level hockey player, which introduce the skills of skating, passing, puck control and shooting in a progressive, one-step-at-a-time manner.
U7 Program Objectives:
My child wants to play games, how many games are played in the U7 program?
Most of the on-ice sessions at U7 are based on fun activities that focus on skill development. At this level, short games are introduced later in the season, either at the end of the on-ice sessions or for the full hour. Our association will also register all players in U7 fun "Jamboree" days and may also organize friendly games with neighboring associations.
For more information, please consult the U7 Program section of the HEO website available HERE.
U7 Program FAQs from Hockey Canada are also available HERE.
Hockey Canada developed the U7 Program to make the first contact with hockey a safe and positive experience. It is a structured, learn-to-play hockey program designed to introduce beginners to the game's basic skills. It enables participants to become contributing members of a team effort, develop self-confidence, and experience a sense of personal achievement. These goals are achieved in an atmosphere of fun and fair play.
Core to the U7 Program is a progressive, learn-to-play teaching curriculum. Children learn through participating in practice drills and informal modified games. The program consists of four phases of instruction, designed for any entry-level hockey player, which introduce the skills of skating, passing, puck control and shooting in a progressive, one-step-at-a-time manner.
U7 Program Objectives:
- A comprehensive program for the development of young children as hockey players.
- The focus is on skill development and fun without the pressures of winning.
- It aims to create participants and instructors who will continue in the game.
- The motto is Fun, Fitness and Fair Play.
My child wants to play games, how many games are played in the U7 program?
Most of the on-ice sessions at U7 are based on fun activities that focus on skill development. At this level, short games are introduced later in the season, either at the end of the on-ice sessions or for the full hour. Our association will also register all players in U7 fun "Jamboree" days and may also organize friendly games with neighboring associations.
U7 Program FAQs from Hockey Canada are also available HERE.