Usa Hockey Age Rules Playing Up
Ice hockey is one of the most exciting sports in North America, and has garnered a huge following over the years. Whether your child is just starting out or already has experience playing the game, you need to be aware of the age rules set by USA Hockey. Playing up, which means moving up to a higher age level, is a common practice among young hockey players. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at USA Hockey age rules playing up and what parents should know.
What is Playing Up in USA Hockey?
Playing up in USA Hockey refers to when a player participates in a game or tournament at an age level above their eligibility. It’s a common practice for young hockey players who show advanced skills and want to challenge themselves by playing against tougher competition. However, it’s important to note that USA Hockey has strict age rules that must be followed to ensure safety and fairness in the game.
USA Hockey Age Rules: Playing Up Guidelines
USA Hockey has established guidelines for players who want to play up, to ensure safety and fair competition. Here are the age rules set by USA Hockey:
- Mites: Players born in 2013, 2012, or 2011 are eligible to play in the 8U age classification.
- Squirts: Players born in 2010 or 2009 are eligible to play in the 10U age classification.
- Peewees: Players born in 2008 or 2007 are eligible to play in the 12U age classification.
- Bantams: Players born in 2006 or 2005 are eligible to play in the 14U age classification.
- Midgets: Players born in 2004, 2003, 2002, or 2001 are eligible to play in the 18U age classification.
Players are allowed to play up one age classification, provided they meet the following requirements:
- They must be physically and emotionally capable of playing at the higher level.
- They must obtain a waiver from the parent/guardian, the coach, the association president, and the district director.
- They must sign the waiver form provided by USA Hockey.
It’s important to note that USA Hockey does not allow players to play up more than one age classification, and there are no exceptions. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of all players on the ice.
The Benefits of Playing Up in USA Hockey
Playing up in USA Hockey can have several benefits for young players who want to improve their skills and develop as athletes. Here are some of the advantages of playing up:
- Challenging Competition: Playing against older and more experienced players can help young athletes develop their skills faster and learn new strategies.
- Improved Confidence: Successfully competing against older players can give young athletes a confidence boost that can translate to other areas of their lives.
- Networking Opportunities: Playing up can expose young athletes to a wider network of coaches and scouts, which can increase their chances of being recruited for higher-level teams in the future.
- Increased Opportunities: Playing up can create more opportunities for young athletes to participate in games and tournaments, which can improve their overall hockey experience.
Conclusion
Playing up in USA Hockey can be a great way for young athletes to challenge themselves, improve their skills, and gain exposure to new opportunities. However, it’s important for parents and coaches to be aware of the age rules set by USA Hockey, and to ensure that players meet the requirements before allowing them to play up. By following these guidelines, we can ensure that young hockey players are safe and can compete fairly on the ice.
