New to Hockey
INTRODUCTION
Ice hockey is a fantastic sport, and we'd love to help you get started. CHA is dedicated to growing the game within our community and offers many pathways to start hockey. This page is here so that you may learn about the programs we offer, the costs involved, the ice times offered, what equipment is needed, and ultimately choose what path is best for your player and family.
My child is new to hockey, where should he/she start?
There are a few factors to consider; mostly age and skating ability. A child with decent skating ability should be ready to join a house team. If they are just starting out with little to no experience, either Learn-to-Play or Snow Cubs (Learn to Skate) might be best. Both programs can also be helpful, even for a child who can skate well, in building confidence prior to joining a house team.
TRY HOCKEY FOR FREE!
Several times each year, “Try Hockey Free Day” will be held at the Arctic Coliseum for kids ages 4-12 who are new to hockey. There’s no experience necessary!
These clinics are a great way for kids to try out hockey without having to make the investment into equipment as loaner equipment will be provided, if needed.
HOW ARE TEAMS FORMED?
Tryouts – are held for all CHA travel teams. Tryouts are held after spring season. Spring Tryouts = Late March. Fall Tryouts = Late May
Evaluations – In the event of a large house 10U, 12U, or 14U program, players are evaluated by coaches and directors (if needed) and an official MAHA approved draft is held with the teams being split evenly by skill level.
Placement – 8U and 6U players are placed in on teams based on skill levels. As players progress, teams are adjusted so play is as competitive as possible within the house league.
What is the difference between travel and house?
Travel hockey begins at 9U-Squirt level. There is no 8U Mite travel hockey.
House and Travel hockey share are very similar in rules, leagues, tournaments, and coaching methods. Where they differ the most is the time commitment and skill level.
The table below shows the differences between the two programs; however, it is not exact. Cost is greatly impacted by what days a team skates, roster size, fundraising, and coaching philosophy. Time is greatly impacted by age, skill level, and coaching philosophy.
Comparison: House vs Travel
| Idea | House | Travel |
|---|---|---|
| Skill Level | Varies; no tryouts | Higher; Players must be offered a spot |
| Ice Time | 2-3 skates/week | 3-4 skates/week |
| Roster | 10-15 skaters. 2 birth years | 10-17; usually single birth year |
| Game Counts | 15-30 | 40-60 depending on team |
| League games | More localized | MI, IN, OH |
| Tournaments | 1-3 | 3-5 |
| Skills & Goalie Coaching | Yes | Yes |
| Cost*** | $1600-$2000 | $2000-$3500 |
| When do teams form? | Mid-August | Late May Tryouts |
REGISTRATION
The Chelsea Hockey Association registration is done online via the SportsNgin website and is overseen by our Registrar. The CHA offers an installment program both online or offline for all age groups. All monies are overseen by the association treasurer. Failure to pay could result in suspension and reported to MAHA.
CHA Registration
For more information on Registration click above.
WHAT DO FEES PAY FOR?
Every CHA skater is required to pay to play. Fees vary based on age, program, and possible additional team costs. Travel teams operate very independently, while House teams primarily rely on CHA to manage costs.
Registration fees cover coach training, skill clinics, training equipment, league fees, some tournament fees, and the association's admin costs for both House and Travel. House teams' registration fees also cover practice equipment, goalie gear, socks, referee fees, and possibly trophies and an end of season team party.
CALENDAR OF IMPORTANT DATES
Parents of players should be aware of important dates leading up to the season and during the season to make sure that they don't miss out on an opportunity.
- May/June – Fall Tryouts for travel teams.
- July - Registration opens
- Early August – Travel teams begin skating
- Mid August – House teams begin skating
- September – LCAHL league begins
- October – Team Pictures
- Nov 1 – Registration deadline for District 6 Tournament
- Early January – Play in games for D6 tournament
- February – MAHA & LCAHL playoffs begin
- March - MAHA & LCAHL championships
Equipment Basics
Players registering for CHA must wear the following equipment:
- Hockey Helmet with Full Face Guard
- Neck Guard
- Mouth Guard
- Shoulder Pads
- Elbow Pads
- Hockey Pants
- Protective cup (boys) Pelvic protector (girls)
- Shorts with pad in front and velcro that holds up socks
- Shin Pads
- Hockey Skates
- Hockey Gloves
- Hockey Stick
Click to Enlarge
Link: Hockey Equipment Buying Guide
How to buy hockey equipment for parents new to the game.
SPORTS ENGINE APP
Parents can stay connected with the team by downloading the SportsEngine app on any mobile device. SportsEngine will sync with the team website and allow you to get the most vital information for keeping track of your season. The S.E. app allows RSVP to calendar events, set up text or email alerts for team updates, and has a messaging system to contact other parents. Additional features such as news, stats, photos, and video sharing can be found on the app.