Introduction Development is at the core of U13 hockey, with the focus on refining skills so players will experience success in practices and games. Looking at how kids learn, and the number of repetitions of specific skills and situations that occur in practice versus a game, practice is where players have a chance to develop the most.
U13 hockey should be delivered through a progressive, learn-to-play teaching curriculum that is age-appropriate and skill-specific for 11-12-year olds. It is a continuous opportunity for young players to develop and refine fundamental movement skills (skating, turning, acceleration), manipulation skills (shooting, puck control, passing) and overall motor skills (balance, coordination, agility) and checking skills (stick checks, angling, body contact) in a fun and safe environment, promoting skill development through self-confidence. When players continue on a positive note, they enjoy the game and will go on to have fun playing hockey for many years. Hockey Canada wants every Canadian youngster to have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from a program designed to meet their specific needs, one that ensures progressive skill development through well-delivered practice sessions and age-appropriate game play in an environment suited to their skill level.
U13 Player Pathway:
https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/Hockey-Programs/Coaching/u13-program/downloads/2023/u13-player-pathway-e.pdf
Core Skills:
https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/Hockey-Programs/Players/Downloads/2020/u13-core-skills-e.pdf
Practice Plan:
https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/Hockey-Programs/Players/Downloads/2020/u13-practice-plan-e.pdf
U13 Skills Evaluation:
https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/Hockey-Programs/Players/Downloads/2020/u13-skills-evaluation-e.xls
Under 13 years of age as of Dec. 31 of the current season
The age and skill level of the team defines the seasonal plan. The Hockey Canada skill development programs are based on progressive steps and follow the appropriate allocation of time illustrated in the skill development pyramid.
Goals for the U13 age division are:
• Fun
• Refining of individual tactics
• Introduction to team play
The U13 program recommends the following practice time allotment:
• 45% technical skills
• 25% individual tactics
• 10% team tactics
• 10% team play
• 10% strategy