###Getting started....
"Frequently Asked Questions" about getting started in minor hockey with the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association
#####What age groups does the SMHA offer programs for?
The SMHA offers programs for boys and girls ages 5 through 17. Timbits Initiation is for 5 & 6 year olds; Novice is for 7 & 8 year olds; Atom is for 9 & 10 year olds; Peewee is for 11 & 12 year olds; Bantam is for 13 & 14 year olds; Midget is for 15-17 year olds. Hockey registration is based on the calendar year for birth years.
Example: a player born in January 2010 is considered the same "hockey age" as a player born in December of 2010.
#####What is a SMHA "Zone"?
The SMHA divides the City of Saskatoon into six geographic zones and one city-wide female hockey zone (Saskatoon Comets). Depending on where you live, you will play in one of the following zones: Aces (southwest), Renegades (northwest), Bobcats (southcentral), Flyers (southeast), Redwings (northeast) or the Wild (northeast).
To find out what zone you are part of visit http://saskatoon.goalline.ca/page.php?page-id=32605
#####How much does it cost to register for Saskatoon minor hockey?
The annual registration fee to your zone can range from $400 to $1200 depending on the age group and level of the player in question.This fee covers all assigned league games, practices, provincial playoff games (if applicable), city playoff game (if applicable), referees fees, Hockey Canada insurance, SHA and Hockey Canada Registration fees.
#####When does registration for hockey take place? Each zone conducts its main registration on-line through the zone website between May 1 - June 30 of each spring. There is no fall registration.
#####Can I register past the regular registration date?
Yes, a late registration period will be established each year to register on-line with your home zone. Note that the registration fee will be higher if registering after June 30th.
#####My son or daughter have never played ice hockey before. Is it ok to register them in an older age group than Initiation?
Yes, for sure! SMHA offers four levels of play in Novice, Atom, Peewee and Bantam hockey - there is a place for all abilities and experience levels. Note" any new players to minor hockey that start in Bantam or Midget must play in a no body checking league for their first year of hockey for safety reasons.
#####Does my child have to play hockey with body checking? No, the SMHA offers excellent No Body Checking leagues for players in Bantam and Midget. A player may play hockey with no body checking from age 5 through age 17 if they wish to.
NOTE: Body checking begins at the bantam age group in minor hockey (age 13 and 14). There is no body checking in female hockey at any age.
#####Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Please contact the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association office by calling (306) 244-1363 or by e-mail at smha@sasktel.net
#####After you have paid your son or daughter's minor hockey registration fees, what else do I need to know about becoming a minor hockey parent?
Beyond the Registration Fees-Expectations of Hockey Families http://saskatoon.goalline.ca
#####What does my new hockey player require for hockey equipment to play?
For a checklist of the hockey equipment required for a player http://saskatoon.goalline.ca
Article and photo (of the Saskatoon Stars) submission courtesy of Kelly Boes, Executive Director of the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association.