This will help answer some initial questions regarding hockey for new skaters or returning skaters in our 8U/6U/Jr. Storm levels for the Sauk Rapids Youth Hockey Association (SRYHA).

The association uses its website –www.saukrapidshockey.org–as the primary means of communication. Check the website for updates, schedule changes and any other SRYHA related information. Our objectives at the 8U and below levels are:

1. Enjoyable introduction and experience to hockey and our Association

2. Provide a healthy environment of fun and learning

3. Teach the basic fundamental skills via USA Hockey's ADM

4. High participation, fun, and skill development

5. Development of communication at the players’ level of learning

6. Introduction to small area games

Let's get it out of the way, What does it cost to play hockey? 

NEW PLAYER U8 and under hockey will receive player dues for FREE!!! That's correct. Simply pay the NEW PLAYER registration of $30 and pay no more for the rest of the season.

Will I have to sell items to raise funds for the Association?

Yes. There is a fundraiser that begins in November. All association players are expected to participate in this so we can continue to keep costs manageable inside SRYHA. 

What is the difference between 8U/6U/Jr. Storm Levels?.

Jr. Storm.  This program is the start. This is for all NEW skaters and those younger than Kindergarten.  Whether your player –girl or boy –has never put on skates or has only skated a few times, all skaters are welcome. An emphasis is placed on basic hockey and skating fundamentals and most importantly, having fun. Our Jr. Storm program runs from early October until the end of the calendar year. At the end of December. Jr. Storm players can elect to end their skating for the season or continue on and then will be placed in the age-appropriate session (U6 or U8, etc)

U6. These skaters are Kindergartners and 1st Graders or 5 years old before June 1. We will incorporate and promote the American Development Model, a proven system by USA Hockey, and will place a large emphasis on basic hockey and skating fundamentals and most importantly, having fun. Our U6 program runs from early October until the end of February/early March. The season is capped off by our Mite Jamboree.

U8. These skaters are 2nd and 3rd Graders or skaters who turn 7 before June 1. We will incorporate and promote the American Development Model, a proven system by USA Hockey, and will place a large emphasis on basic hockey and skating fundamentals and most importantly, having fun. Our U8 program runs from early October until the end of February/early March. The season is capped off by Mite Jamboree.

Our association follows the ADM guide very closely to heighten the level of development your skater will receive. Click here to learn more about USA Hockey's ADM. https://www.admkids.com/about 

 Coaches for our programs focus on the introduction to: 

Hockey fundamentals, Skating skills, Puck handling, Passing and Receiving, and Shooting.  The use of multiple coaches, fun games, and cross-ice/small game activities in these programs ensure an active and varied learning environment for your young skater.

All 8U/6U/Jr. Storm groups start September 30th, 2023!

When will my player skate?

It is our Association’s goal to have a consistent set schedule for our JR Storm/6U/8U program.

Jr. Storm players practice on Monday nights (5:30 pm) and Saturday mornings (8:00 am). The practices, once scheduled, are set and do not often vary.

U6 will practice on Tuesday nights (5:30 pm) and Saturday mornings (9:15 am).

U8 will practice on Wednesday nights (5:30 pm) and Saturday mornings (10:30 am).

What equipment does my player need?

Skates, shin pads, protective/pelvic cup, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, hockey pants/breezers, mouth guard, helmet with full face shield, and a hockey stick. Click this link for a visual of all equipment needed. https://newtohockey.com/hockey-equipment-buying-guide-for-kids/  SRYHA gives each NEW player a Sock Jock to keep, which will serve as your hockey socks, your jock (you still need to have the cup or pelvic protector to put in the jock), and spandex all in one piece! Click this link to learn more about the SockJock, http://www.wicked-rags.com/product-page/kid-s-sockjock 

SRYHA has FREE loaner equipment, just ask. 

Otherwise, if you wish to purchase your own area equipment resellers, such as (1) Hockeyzone; (2) Scheels; (3) Centennial Sports; and (4) Play it Again Sports may help you determine the correct size equipment for your player. Your player will receive one practice jersey at the beginning of the season, which is theirs to keep.

Will I have to volunteer my time to the Association?

Yes. SRYHA operates the concession stand at Sports Arena East as a means of fundraising for the Association. Staffing the concession stand is the responsibility of each parent and is considered mandatory volunteer hours by SRYHA. More information is available on the website. Your U8/U6 Program Coordinator or the concession stand scheduler can give you an orientation. Concession stand volunteering basically consists of selling soda, coffee, and other concession stand items to spectators at the arena. Volunteering is also a great way to get involved and meet other parents in the Association. Research has proven that family's who volunteer inside their association take more pride and ownership in it and ultimately that creates a more enjoyable experience for your child. If you plan to have your player continue to play hockey past their first season, there are also summer volunteering opportunities available that can reduce your required volunteer concession stand hours for the next season. Our U8/U6 groups host and participate in a tournament or “Jamboree” at the end of the season. This tournament brings together 20+ teams throughout Minnesota. The tournament proceeds are used to offset a portion of the following year’s U8/U6 ice time. All U8/U6 families need to work a set number of hours during this tournament.

How can my opinion be heard in the association?

This is YOUR Association. Please take the time to get involved. The General Association Meeting, held on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 PM at Benton Station, is open to ALL parents. Past minutes for the SRYHA Executive Board meetings are available by clicking on the"Board Mtg Minutes" tab on the left navigation panel of the website.

How can I be more involved in the association?

1. Coach -SRYHA is always looking for coaches at all levels. All coaches are volunteers. What better way to be involved with your children than to be out on the ice with them. NO EXPERIENCE is necessary, we will train you! Certification is easy and informative.

2. Be a team volunteer –Help with communications and team/game/tourney preparation.

3. Contact the executive board for currently open positions in the association. Please see the website for information on any of these opportunities.

Ready to register?  Click the link found at the top of the page.

Thank you.