How do I register?

The first step in signing your child up for hockey is to register online for USA Hockey Membership. Upon completing that form, USA Hockey will provide you with a confirmation number that can be used to register with your local association.

To find the youth hockey association closest to you, click here.

Is Hockey only for youth players?

Hockey provides a variety of programs for all ages. Youth (14 & Under) participating within their local association or the Rec League constitute the majority of players.  Many high school age players participate in one of the 33 state high school programs, or midget level teams offered through their local associations.  There are Adult hockey programs available for players over 18 years old. Several Disabled Hockey programs provide people of all ages with mental and physical disabilities the opportunity to play hockey.  Indiana also has registered coaches and officials associations.

My child is ___ years old. Is it too early/too late to start playing hockey?

INHockey.net encourages families to wait until their kids are at least four years old before starting organized hockey. Many associations require players to be five years old.  Kids that start hockey before they are physically and mentally ready are more likely to have a negative experience.

It is never too late to start playing hockey.  Players have joined hockey programs at 12-13 years old and still made varsity hockey teams. More importantly, the expansion of college intramural and adult teams have made hockey a lifetime sport.  Many adult leagues in Indiana offer clinics, teams and leagues designed specifically for beginners.

What age level should my child be playing at?

Each summer USA Hockey publishes a list of age charts and participation levels for the coming season.  More recently, USA Hockey approved the formation of Flex Hockey teams for mixed age levels when necessary for participation.  We recommend checking with your local youth association to find out about the programs they offer and which is appropriate for your child.

Is hockey safe for my child?

One of USA Hockey's primary focuses is the safety of your child. In addition to delaying body checking to the Bantam/14U age level, there are currently have a number of on-ice initiatives in place including Heads-Up Don't Duck, body checking clinics, the STOP patch and helmet decals, and a variety of other safety initiatives.

With the assistance of USA Hockey, each Indiana youth hockey associations offers the most comprehensive off-ice safety program available in youth sports called SafeSport.  SafeSport enhances your child's safety through a ZERO TOLERANCE policy of misconduct and abuse by creating mechanisms for training parents and administrators, reporting incidents, supervising the youth hockey environment and responding to issues.