What is youth travel hockey?

Youth travel hockey involves competitive teams that travel to compete against other teams from different regions or states. It typically requires a higher level of commitment compared to recreational leagues.

At what age can my child start playing travel hockey?

The age at which children can start playing travel hockey varies depending on the organization and league rules. Typically, players start around 8 to 10 years old, but some programs offer opportunities for younger players as well.

How much does it cost to play youth travel hockey?

The cost of youth travel hockey can vary significantly depending on factors such as team fees, equipment costs, travel expenses, and tournament fees. It's essential to inquire about all potential expenses involved before committing to a team.

How often are practices and games?

The timing of practices and games may differ based on the team and league. Typically, travel hockey teams maintain a more rigorous schedule with frequent practices and games compared to recreational leagues. This often involves multiple practices weekly and several games during weekends. For instance, teams usually host one or more home games every weekend, and managers may arrange additional away games when opportunities arise. At the younger levels the goal is to maximize ice touches to ensure proper development of players.

What is the commitment? Do I have to attend all games and practices?

Playing youth travel hockey is a team sport that requires a certain amount of players to successfully compete in games. Therefore all players should expect a high level of commitment. Players are expected to attend games and practices when available. It is important to RSVP for games and practices so coaches and managers can set expectations with opponents and arrange for alternate players should the roster not be full. We aim for 10 skaters and a goalie minimum for all games.

How far will we need to travel for games and tournaments?

Travel distances for games and tournaments can vary widely depending on the league and the location of other teams. Some teams may primarily compete locally or within a specific region, while others may travel longer distances for tournaments or league play.

How competitive is youth travel hockey?

Youth travel hockey can be highly competitive, as teams often compete against other skilled players and travel to tournaments with teams from various regions. It's essential for players and parents to understand the level of commitment and competitiveness expected before joining a travel team.

How are players selected for travel hockey teams?

Player selection processes vary by organization and team. Some teams hold tryouts where players are evaluated based on skill level, while others may have a more open registration process. It's essential to understand the selection criteria and expectations for participation before trying out for a team.

Are there opportunities for scholarships or financial assistance?

Some organizations and leagues may offer scholarships or financial assistance programs to help offset the cost of participating in travel hockey. It's advisable to inquire about any available assistance options and eligibility requirements when considering joining a team.

What are the benefits of playing youth travel hockey?

Youth travel hockey offers numerous benefits, including skill development, competitive experience, teamwork, discipline, physical fitness, and the opportunity to make lasting friendships with teammates. Additionally, playing travel hockey can provide exposure to higher levels of competition and opportunities for advancement in the sport.

What are the different levels of players?

PYH conforms to USA Hockey guidelines with respect to age groups. These age divisions are Mites (8 and younger), Squirts (9 and 10 years old), Peewees (11 and 12 years old), Bantams (13 and 14 years old), and Midgets (15 to 18). Within those divisions, PYH generally rosters several travel teams at each age group at various skill levels based on number of players who tryout. Players are assigned to a team after a thorough tryout process which is generally conducted in the spring for the following season that begins in August/September.

Travel teams are intended for more accomplished players and generally play two games each weekend during the season and participate in two to three in-season tournaments. 

What equipment is required?

Hockey players wear a helmet with full face protection (facemask or cage), a mouth guard, a neck guard, shoulder pads, elbow pads, hockey pants, shin pads, hockey gloves, and, of course, skates and a hockey stick (if your skater is new to hockey, and you're unsure whether they are a righty or a lefty, it's best to purchase a low-cost flat-bladed stick until they commit to one side). Goalies require additional specialized equipment such as leg pads, a chest protector, a blocker, and a goalie mask.

PYH partners with the New York Rangers, to offer a Learn to Play program that will supply equipment and training sessions to get you started.

Does my skater need to tryout?

All travel skaters are required to participate in the tryout evaluations for their age division for the travel problem. This allows the coaches and evaluators to give every skater a full and careful look to ensure that your skater is properly placed on the right team.

Who are the coaches, and what are their qualifications?

PYH coaches are all USA Hockey-certified, meaning they have all completed USA Hockey coaching seminars. USA Hockey is the national governing body of amateur hockey in the United States, from the smallest Mite House team right up to the US National and Olympic teams. PYH is confident that across-the-board, our coaches are as qualified and successful as those in other organizations. The success of our teams is proof of the quality of our coaching staff.

Whom can I contact with questions?

For more information please contact PYH at info@pelhamhockey.com

How can I get involved?

PYH is a volunteer parent-run organization. There are many opportunities to get involved with PYH, from coaching, to managing a team (a manager works with the coach on scheduling and other off-ice issues), volunteering, to serving on the PYH Board in one of many different positions. Like any large volunteer youth sports organization, PYH is always in need of enthusiastic and energetic support on and off the ice.

Is hockey dangerous?

Hockey is a contact sport, and injuries, though rare, do occur. Parents should be aware that the risk of injury is real. However, with proper equipment, proper coaching - including USA Hockey's extensive emphasis on injury prevention, and ample practice time devoted to hitting and being hit (checking does not begin until the Bantam Division, so Mites, Squirts & Pee Wees are non-checking divisions, though collisions do happen), PYH believes that players are prepared and protected and the risk of injury is minimized as much as it possibly can be.