Dunedin Ice Hockey Association

Youth grades at the Dunedin Ice Hockey Association

When your kid starts playing ice hockey he will be assigned to a grade.

In ice hockey youth grades are designed around age to ensure kids get to play with players of similar size and ability.

The Dunedin grade system is based on the North American ice hockey youth grades. However accommodations have been made to ensure a reasonable number of players are assigned to each grade.

Kiwi hockey-Atoms

This grade is for players aged under 10 years old and beginner youth players.

It teaches the basics of ice hockey in a fun and non-competitive environment.

Peewees

The Peewee grade is for players aged under 13 years old.

This grade allows players to improve on the basic individual skills they have learned in Kiwi-Hockey. Basic team tactics are also introduced so players can learn to play as a team.

Midgets

This grade is for players of up to 16 year olds. In this grade, players get to master advanced individual skills and team tactics.

Juniors

This grade is for players of up to 19 year olds.

In this grade, players begin to transition to senior hockey. Junior players continue to practice with midget players, but may also attend senior practices suitable to their skill level if they wish.

Playing in an higher grade

In some cases, a player may be invited to play in an higher grade.

The opportunity to play at a higher grade is entirely at the discretion of the Dunedin Head Coach.

Grade for youth female players

Unfortunately, the number of female players in Dunedin does not allow us to run regular girls-only practices. Female youth players practice with male players of the same age grade and most of the tournaments are mixed.

The Huskies is a local women’s team that gets together for club nights and occasional practices. There are also some national and regional competitions for female only.