U8 Travel Mite Hockey
Our U8 Travel Mite teams compete in the Valley Hockey League, which features teams ranging from AAA to A-level to ensure our players and teams have the best competitive experience.
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.
Also included with our U8 NCMYH Sting also offers free four-week summer skills sessions every year.
Evaluations 2024-2025 Season
While evaluations have concluded, Sting is actively looking for new players.
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 2024-2025 season, player tuition includes participation in all Valley Hockey League (VHL) games, totaling 25 games, as well as playoffs if the team qualifies. These games are played throughout the region, with most venues within a maximum of 1 hour from the team's base.
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
VHL (Valley Hockey League) 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.
2024-2025
While evaluations have concluded, Sting is actively looking for new players. To sign up for the Travel Mite 2024-25 season, please click the "REGISTER" button below. Our Travel Mite program features a cross-ice, 4-on-4 game format and is tailored for players aged 6 to 8.
Registration is free, and payments will only commence upon your acceptance of the offer email that we will send to you. Once you have registered, you will receive a follow-up email prompting you to schedule an evaluation time slot for your child. Following the evaluation(s), you will be sent an offer email regarding your child's team placement.
The tuition fee for the 2024-2025 season is $1,100, and the amount may be adjusted based on the registration date.