8U Mites
This program is for 8 and under players who have completed Learn-To-Play programming. Players will enhance their hockey skills in a fun and supportive environment. This age group participates in cross-ice scrimmage games in West Michigan.
More Information
Ages
Players aged 8 and younger, based on birth year. For 2026-27 season, this is 2018 birth year and younger.
When
Early September through early March
Where
All practices are held at Holland Ice Arena. Some games will be at home and the away games will be in West Michigan.
Practices
Practices are twice per week, for one hour each.
Games
The Ice Dogs 8U teams participate in regional "exchanges" and "jamborees". These events are typically 2 - 3 Saturdays per month from October to early March.
Exchanges are when we meet up with other 8U teams from the West Michigan area to play cross-ice or half-ice 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 scrimmages against those other organizations. No scores are kept. There are no winners. It isn't a "league" and there is no trophy at the end. Exchanges are meant for players to experience "real games" with a high focus on fun. All participating youth hockey programs host exchanges throughout the season.
A jamboree is nothing more than a "big exchange", where all teams meet at the same rink and play all-day.
The time commitment for any team at an exchange or jamboree is typically 1 or 1.5 hours.
Fall 2026-2027
The 8U program, "Mites", is for players age 8 and under (2018 birth years and younger). This is the natural next-step for players graduating from the Learn-To-Play program, or those new players who are comfortable with skating.
Cost: $800
Early Registration is strongly encouraged to help the program plan for the 8U season
Non-refundable $100 deposit is required at the time of registration.
All players must register first with USA Hockey for the 2026 - 2027 season at https://membership.usahockey.com
Register