U7 Pathways

OWHA U7 Hockey Program: Building a Love for the Game

The U7 Program is the first step in the Ontario Women's Hockey Association (OWHA) player pathway and is designed specifically for young athletes who are new to hockey. Focused on fun, skill development, and confidence-building, the program provides a positive introduction to the sport in an age-appropriate environment.

What is the U7 Program?

The U7 Program follows Hockey Canada's Long-Term Player Development model and is designed for players aged five and six. Rather than emphasizing competition and results, the program focuses on developing fundamental movement skills and basic hockey abilities through engaging practices and modified game play.

Program Goals

The U7 Program is built around four key objectives:

• Have fun and be active
• Learn fundamental hockey skills
• Develop and refine basic motor skills
• Introduce teamwork, cooperation, and fair play

By creating a positive first hockey experience, players develop confidence, friendships, and a lifelong love for the game.

Cross-Ice Hockey

All U7 hockey is played on a cross-ice surface, which means the ice is divided into smaller playing areas. This approach allows players to:

• Touch the puck more often
• Stay actively involved in the play
• Improve skating and puck control skills
• Make more decisions during game situations
• Build confidence through increased participation

Research has shown that young players learn and develop skills more effectively when playing in smaller spaces designed for their age and stage of development.

What Players Learn

Throughout the season, players are introduced to and develop:

• Skating fundamentals
• Balance and coordination
• Puck control
• Passing and receiving
• Shooting basics
• Teamwork and sportsmanship

Skills are taught progressively through structured practices, fun drills, obstacle courses, small-area games, and modified hockey activities that keep players engaged and learning.

A Positive Development Environment

At the U7 level, the focus is on participation and development rather than winning and losing. Coaches create a safe, encouraging environment where every player has the opportunity to learn, improve, and enjoy the game. The program is designed to ensure all participants experience success while developing a strong foundation for future hockey opportunities.

The First Step in the Hockey Pathway

The U7 Program serves as the foundation for a player's hockey journey. By emphasizing fun, skill development, confidence, and teamwork, the program prepares young athletes for future stages of hockey while ensuring they develop a lifelong passion for the sport. Whether a player continues into recreational or competitive hockey, the skills and experiences gained at the U7 level provide the building blocks for future success.

For additional information please visit OWHA website.