Mite Graduation Program

The LHC Mite Graduation Program registration is officially underway! After several years of 8U hockey, the 2017 birth year class is now ready to "graduate" to the next level: 10U full-ice hockey.

This program is specifically designed to bridge the gap between cross-ice play and the full-ice game. We provide a comprehensive transition package that combines instructional practices with real tournament experience.

Program Highlights:

• 4 Preparation Practices: Our coaches will be on the ice for four targeted practice sessions leading up to the tournament. These sessions focus on the fundamental shifts in positioning and game flow that come with a full-size sheet of ice.
• Full-Ice Tournament at DU: The program concludes with an exciting full-ice tournament held at Denver University from April 3rd–5th.
• Game Instruction & Officiating: During the tournament, certified referees will officiate the games. Our coaches will be on the bench to provide active instruction and guidance as players navigate new rules, including:
• Proper face-off alignments and positioning.
• Understanding Offside and Icing.
• Introduction to special teams (Power Plays and Penalty Kills).

This is the perfect opportunity for your player to gain confidence and experience before the official 10U season begins. We look forward to seeing the 2017 class take this next big step in their hockey journey!

Practices All practices are held at Carlston Ice Arena (Lafayette Y) at 4:15 PM on the following dates:

• Tuesday, March 10
• Wednesday, March 11
• Tuesday, March 24
• Wednesday, March 25

Note: There is no practice during Spring Break (March 16 - 22).

Tournament

• Dates: April 3rd – April 5th
• Location: Denver University (Magness & Joy Burns Arena)
• Game Count: Minimum guarantee of 4 games (maximum of 6).
• Game Schedule: Tournament schedules are usually released 5–10 days before the start date. We will share it immediately once it is available.
• Game Length: Three 12-minute stop-time periods (approx. 1 hour total).
• Arrival: Please arrive one hour before game time for off-ice warmups and dressing.

Ages: Meant for 2017 birth year players. 2018 birth year players may be invited to join for practices only or for the full program (pending approval by USA Hockey and the tournament director).

Jerseys: Players will wear their 8U Locomotive jerseys (please bring both white and black).

Equipment: Neck guards are mandatory for all practices and games.

Goalies: We will provide quick-change goalie gear for players who want to try the position. Please note we will be using regular-sized nets for this tournament.