U8/U9 Teams in Our Community
You’ve watched your little one learn the basics. U8 & U9 are the next step to enjoying sports for life.
U8/U9 makes sure that taking early strides in the game is a safe and positive experience, introducing newcomers to basic skills. Kids form friendships, develop self-confidence and experience personal achievement, all through fun and fair play.
U8/U9 Recreational Division
Coordinator
Any questions or inquiries can be directed to recreationalcoordinator@hockeynanaimo.com
U8/U9 Divisional Updates for Families
U8 – 2018 Born Players
Make sure your player has a practice jersey and socks to begin the season with, check your player gear over the summer too! Sharpen those skates!!
Players will be evaluated and placed onto equal teams near then end of Sept. at which times their team jersey and socks will be handed out.
Once teams are formed please be in contact with your team manager for all ice times
U9 – 2017 Born Players
Make sure your player has a practice jersey and socks to begin the season with, check your player gear over the summer too! Sharpen those skates!!
Players will be evaluated and placed onto equal teams near then end of Sept. at which times their team jersey and socks will be handed out.
Once teams are formed please be in contact with your team manager for all ice times
Learn More about Hockey Canada Seasonal Structures:
Home Tournament Jamboree Hosted March 21-22, 2026
Benefits of half-ice for U9 hockey
Opportunity for development increases as the size of the rink decreases
There can be concerns from parents about how small-area games may impact their child’s hockey development, but parents should trust Hockey Canada and its research. Putting young players into a competitive environment too early will compromise their development; they need to be placed into competitive situations that suit their age-specific abilities. This is why Hockey Canada’s Long-Term Player Development Model is so important.
Benefits of half-ice for U9 hockey
Opportunity for development increases as the size of the rink decreases
Dividing the playing surface is a decision that has been made in consultation with experts in athlete development. It is important to understand the benefits of half-ice hockey and why Hockey Canada has a national policy ensuring U9 hockey is played in smaller, modified spaces.
You have to be able to make plays in pretty small areas. The more you practice in small spaces the better off you are. "
Sidney Crosby,
Canada’s National Men’s Team
