8U Travel Mite
Our U8 Travel Mite teams have usually participated in the Valley Hockey League; however, for the 2025/26 season, the board is considering a return to the NorthStar League, which includes teams ranging from AAA to A-level to ensure that our players and teams receive the best competitive experience. Furthermore, all games are held at the NorthStar rink in Westborough and are scheduled on Saturdays from 7 AM to 12 AM.
Our U8 Travel Mite Half Ice program offers approximately two (50-minute) practices per week at one of our three local rinks: Ashburnham, Gardner, or Winchendon.
Mites will have a total of 60 practices and 25 games plus playoffs.
All players must be registered with USA Hockey before the 1st practice of the season. No exceptions.
Evaluations 2025-2026 Season
Ages
U8 Travel Mite program is recommended for players ages 6-8.
Younger players can be considered for participation by reaching out to the program coordinator.
When
Our Travel Mite season typically runs from September through March
GAMES
For the 2025-2026 season, player tuition includes participation in all League games, totaling 25 games and playoffs, if the team qualifies.
All games will be played at NorthStar Ice Sports. The anticipated game times are Saturday games (7:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.).
Including league games and playoffs in the tuition ensures that players can compete regularly against various opponents, gaining valuable game experience and exposure to different playing styles. Additionally, the commitment to regional games allows players to develop camaraderie with their teammates and foster a sense of community within the league.
Tuition covers various expenses associated with participation in league games, including ice time rental, referee fees, equipment maintenance, and travel costs. By bundling these expenses into the tuition fee, families can more easily plan and budget for their child's involvement in the program.
Overall, the comprehensive nature of the player tuition ensures that participants have access to a robust schedule of competitive games while minimizing additional financial burdens for families throughout the season.
PRACTICES
All Sting Travel teams practice twice weekly at the Gardner Veterans Arena, Cushing Academy, or The Winchendon School.
Meanwhile, the North Central Mass Youth Hockey (NCMYH) typically has sixty practices per season.
With 60 practices per season, NCMYH has a more intensive practice schedule than other local programs. This increased frequency of practices can provide players with more opportunities for skill development, tactical training, and team bonding throughout the season.
Additionally, practicing at three different facilities may offer players exposure to varying ice conditions and rink environments, which can contribute to their overall development as hockey players.
JERSEYS
For our U8 Travel Mite players, there are specific requirements regarding jerseys and socks:
Jerseys: All U8 Travel Mite players are required to have a Black (Home) jersey. NCMYH provides Yellow Pinneys for Away team designations.
Socks: Black socks will be provided before the start of the season. The cost of socks is covered by Player tuition.
If you are new to our program or need a replacement jersey, you can purchase a black jersey after evaluations during our player offer process.
Coaching
Thank you for your interest in coaching! We truly value our volunteers, especially those who step up as Coaches.
If you’d like to be considered for a Head Coach, Assistant Coach position, or Level Rep, please complete the coaching application (will be posted soon).
We appreciate your dedication to our players and look forward to reviewing your application!
2025-2026
🏒 Registration is now open for the 8U Travel Mite level for players born between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019.
📍 Evaluations will take place at Gardner Veterans Arena over two weeks, starting March 12th.
Please keep an eye on your inbox for further details. We look forward to another great season!
Go Sting!