Our U5 Hockey program is the perfect introduction to the game for young children aged 3 to 5. Designed with fun, safety, and confidence-building in mind, this program helps little players get comfortable on the ice while developing the basic skills of skating, balance, and puck control.
With a focus on fun games and engaging activities, our certified coaches create a positive and supportive environment where every child can learn at their own pace. Whether your child is stepping on the ice for the first time or already showing interest in hockey, this is a great place to start their hockey journey.
Practices:
Will vary between seasons.
Usually, there are one to two practices a week, 30-45 minutes long.
Practices may be half-ice.
Games:
Generally, this division does not compete in sanctioned games or tournaments.
** Full CSA approved hockey gear is required to participate in initiation hockey.
The U7 Hockey program is designed for young players aged 5 and 6 who are ready to build on the fundamentals of skating and start learning the basics of hockey in a fun, encouraging environment.
This program focuses on developing key skills such as skating, puck handling, passing, and shooting through age-appropriate drills and small-area games. Players will also begin to learn about teamwork, sportsmanship, and the structure of the game, all while continuing to have fun on the ice.
Led by certified Hockey Canada coaches who emphasize fun and skill development, U7 is a great way for kids to grow their love for the game and gain confidence in a team setting.
Whether your child is moving up from initiation hockey or just starting out, U7 is the next step in their hockey journey!
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Depending on the number of registrants, practices may alternate between Elkford and Sparwood.
Practices may be half-ice.
Games and Tournaments:
This division does not participate in a league.
Cross-ice exhibition games are organized against teams from nearby associations ( For example, Fernie, Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek teams).
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
https://www.bchockey.net/players/player-pathway#u7
U9 Hockey is all about taking the next step in skill development while keeping the game fun and engaging for players aged 7 and 8. At this level, kids continue to build on their foundational skills with a greater focus on skating technique, puck control, passing, shooting, and team play.
The program introduces more structured practices and game situations, helping players learn positioning, teamwork, and game flow in a supportive environment. Games are typically played in a half-ice format, allowing for more puck touches, quicker decision-making, and greater involvement for every player on the ice.
Led by certified Hockey Canada coaches, U9 fosters confidence, sportsmanship, and a love for the game, setting the stage for continued success and enjoyment in hockey.
This season, Elk Valley Minor Hockey will be introducing a new format at the U9 level by grouping players based on skill and stage of development. The goal of this approach is to better support each player’s individual growth and overall enjoyment of the game.
Whether your child is returning or joining for the first time, U9 is a fun and rewarding level where skills grow and friendships form.
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Depending on the number of registrants, practices may alternate between Elkford and Sparwood.
Practices may be half-ice.
Games and Tournaments:
This division does not participate in a league.
Half-ice exhibition games are organized against teams from nearby associations (Fernie, Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek teams).
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
https://www.bchockey.net/players/player-pathway#u9
atoMc® U11 Hockey is a McDonald's® Canada's minor hockey sponsorship program of the Under-11 (U11) house league/recreational age division in Canada (excluding the Province of Quebec). The program provides free sets of primary game jerseys and socks to all participating teams.
U11 is an exciting step forward for players aged 9 and 10 as they continue developing their skills in a more structured and competitive environment. At this level, players refine their skating, puck handling, shooting, and game awareness while building teamwork and hockey IQ.
U11 is also when league play begins with the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association (EKMHA), introducing players to regular season games, standings, and travel to surrounding communities for competition.
At this stage, we typically separate players into teams based on skill level to ensure appropriate development and a positive experience for everyone. This helps all players grow at their own pace while promoting fair play and confidence on the ice.
With a balance of fun, learning, and competition, U11 sets the foundation for long-term success and continued love for the game.
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Practices may alternate between Sparwood and Elkford.
Games and Tournaments:
U11 teams participate in the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association league, which includes teams from Golden, Invermere, Creston, Cranbrook, Kimberley, and Fernie.
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
https://www.bchockey.net/players/player-pathway#u11
U13 Hockey marks an exciting stage in a young player’s development, where the game becomes faster, more competitive, and more strategic. Players aged 11 and 12 continue to refine their skills with a greater focus on team systems, positional play, and advanced techniques in skating, shooting, and puck movement.
At the U13 level, combined rep teams are formed in partnership with Fernie Minor Hockey Association. These teams bring together players from both communities to compete at a higher level, offering more intensive practices, travel opportunities, and a stronger focus on competition and development.
Whether playing on a house team or striving for a spot on a rep team, U13 provides a supportive and challenging environment where athletes build confidence, strengthen their skills, and deepen their passion for the game.
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Practices may alternate between Sparwood and Elkford and Fernie.
Games and Tournaments:
U13 teams participate in the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association league, which includes teams from Golden, Invermere, Creston, Cranbrook, Kimberley, Whitefish, and Fernie.
Sometimes, depending on the season, the U13 Rep teams may join the West Kootenay Minor Hockey Association league.
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
https://www.bchockey.net/players/player-pathway#u13
U15 Hockey is a key stage in player development, where athletes aged 13 and 14 continue to grow their skills, hockey sense, and physical strength in a more competitive and fast-paced environment. Players refine advanced techniques, deepen their understanding of game strategy, and build leadership and teamwork both on and off the ice.
At this level, league play continues through the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association, with regular games, tournaments, and increased emphasis on structured team play. Often, we will combine with the Fernie Minor Hockey Association to form combined teams.
U15 offers two streams of play:
Recreational hockey, which emphasizes fun, fitness, and skill development in a non-contact environment.
Rep (tiered) hockey, which includes full-body contact. These teams offer a higher level of competition, and a stronger focus on performance and commitment. Players are taught proper checking techniques and body contact safety as part of their ongoing development.
U15 is a great opportunity for players to challenge themselves, develop confidence, and enjoy the competitive side of hockey, whether in house or rep programming, while continuing to build a lifelong love of the sport.
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Practices may alternate between Sparwood and Elkford and Fernie.
Games and Tournaments:
U15 teams participate in the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association league, which includes teams from Golden, Invermere, Creston, Cranbrook, Kimberley, Whitefish, and Fernie.
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
https://www.bchockey.net/players/player-pathway#u15
U18 Hockey is the final stage of minor hockey, offering players aged 15 to 17 the opportunity to further develop their skills, compete at a high level, and enjoy the game as they prepare for potential post-secondary or lifelong recreational play.
At this level, players continue to refine advanced techniques, game strategy, and leadership, while also taking on more responsibility and maturity both on and off the ice. League play continues through the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association, with regular games, practices, and tournaments. Often, depending on registration numbers, we will combine with the Fernie Minor Hockey Association to create teams.
U18 offers two streams of play:
Recreational hockey, which emphasizes fun, fitness, and skill development in a non-contact environment.
Rep (tiered) hockey, which is played on combined teams with Fernie Minor Hockey Association and includes full-body contact. These teams offer a higher level of competition, more travel, and a stronger focus on performance and commitment. Players are taught proper checking techniques and body contact safety as part of their ongoing development.
Whether players are looking to compete at a higher level or simply continue enjoying the sport they love, U18 provides a structured, supportive environment where they can grow as athletes and teammates.
Practices:
Usually, two one-hour ice sessions per week.
Practices may alternate between Sparwood and Elkford and Fernie.
Games and Tournaments:
Whenever possible, U18 teams participate in the East Kootenay Minor Hockey Association league, which includes teams from Golden, Invermere, Creston, Cranbrook, Kimberley, Whitefish, and Fernie.
Participation in tournaments is determined at the discretion of the team's coaches and manager based on team interest, availability and overall season planning.
At Elk Valley Minor Hockey Association, we are proud to support and encourage female participation at all levels of the game. Girls are welcome and encouraged to play on all integrated (co-ed) teams across all age divisions.
When registration numbers and interest allow, we can also host all-female teams to provide additional opportunities for girls to play and grow in a supportive, female-focused environment. Our goal is to ensure every player feels welcome, included, and empowered to enjoy the game of hockey.