U9 Pathways

OWHA U9 Hockey Program: Developing Skills and Growing the Game

The U9 Program is the next step in the Ontario Women's Hockey Association (OWHA) player pathway and is designed for players aged seven and eight. Building on the fundamentals introduced at the U7 level, the U9 program focuses on skill development, increased game understanding, and fostering a lifelong love of hockey in a fun and supportive environment.

What is the U9 Program?

The U9 Program follows Hockey Canada's Long-Term Player Development model and is designed to provide age-appropriate training and competition opportunities. At this stage, players continue to develop fundamental hockey skills while learning how to apply those skills in game situations through modified game formats and structured practices.

Program Goals

The U9 Program focuses on:

• Enhancing skating, puck control, passing, and shooting skills
• Improving confidence and decision-making with the puck
• Developing teamwork and sportsmanship
• Encouraging physical literacy and athletic development
• Ensuring all players have fun while learning the game

The emphasis remains on player development rather than game outcomes, creating an environment where every athlete can learn, grow, and succeed.

Half-Ice Hockey Benefits

A key component of the U9 pathway is half-ice hockey. Playing on a smaller surface provides young athletes with significantly more opportunities to engage in the game and develop their skills.

Benefits of half-ice hockey include:

• More puck touches for every player
• Increased skating and skill development
• More shots on goal and scoring opportunities
• Greater involvement in the play
• Improved decision-making and hockey sense
• Increased confidence and enjoyment

By reducing the size of the playing area, players spend less time chasing the puck and more time actively participating in the game. This leads to accelerated skill development and a more enjoyable hockey experience.

What Players Learn

Throughout the season, players continue to refine and expand their hockey abilities, including:

• Advanced skating techniques
• Puck control and protection
• Passing and receiving under pressure
• Shooting accuracy and power
• Offensive and defensive awareness
• Team concepts and game play strategies

Practices are designed to maximize repetitions and skill development through station-based activities, small-area games, and age-appropriate drills.

Preparing for Future Hockey

The U9 stage serves as an important bridge between introductory hockey and the next phases of player development. Athletes begin to understand team play, positional concepts, and game situations while continuing to prioritize skill acquisition and enjoyment.

The skills developed at the U9 level create a strong foundation for future participation in recreational, house league, or competitive hockey programs.

Creating Positive Hockey Experiences

At the U9 level, success is measured by player development, confidence, and enjoyment. Coaches, volunteers, and families work together to provide a positive environment where athletes feel supported, challenged, and excited to come to the rink.

The U9 Program is designed to help every player develop not only as a hockey player, but also as a teammate, leader, and lifelong participant in sport.

For additional information please visit OWHA Website.