Travel SQUIRT-PEEWEE-BANTAM

Squirt (Ages 9-10):

• Focus on fundamental skills development: skating, passing, shooting, and puck handling.
• Introduction to basic team strategies and positioning.
• Participation in local and regional tournaments to gain game experience.
• Emphasis on sportsmanship, discipline, and fostering a love for the game.

Peewee (Ages 11-12):

• Continued skill development with a focus on refining techniques.
• Introduction to more advanced team tactics and systems.
• Increased competition through participation in more competitive leagues and tournaments.
• Emphasis on physical conditioning and mental preparation.

Bantam (Ages 13-14):

• Further refinement of skills with an emphasis on speed, strength, and agility.
• Advanced tactical training, including power plays, penalty kills, and situational play.
• Participation in highly competitive leagues and tournaments at regional and potentially national levels.
• Preparation for potential higher-level play, such as junior hockey or high school varsity teams.

Our Travel Squirt, Peewee, and Bantam season typically run from September through March

For the 2024-2025 season, player tuition includes participation in all Valley Hockey League (VHL) games, totaling 35 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.

The inclusion of league games and playoffs in the tuition ensures that players have the opportunity to compete regularly against a variety of 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.

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.

For our Travel Squirt, Peewee, and Bantam players, there are specific requirements regarding jerseys and socks:

Jerseys: Players must have both a black and yellow jersey.

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(s), you can do so during the player offer process.