The Canadian Hockey Initiation Program was developed by Hockey Canada to make children’s first contact with hockey a safe and positive experience.

It is a structured, learn to play hockey program designed to introduce beginners to the games basic skills. It is a comprehensive program designed to give the young participant the best possible start to an enjoyable playing experience. The emphasis is on skill development and fun without the pressures of competition. It aims to create participants and instructors who will continue in the game.

Level 1: CHIP (born in 2006)
This program is for 4 year olds or any player new to hockey.

Level 2: Mites (born in 2005)
Mites (formerly called Jr Pre-Novice) is for 5 year olds who have 1 year of Initiation Program Experience or other experience as deemed acceptable by the IP Director. These are players who are comfortable on their skates and can develop in the “learning game”, a half ice game designed to teach players the basics of hockey.

Level 3: Tykes (born in 2004)
Tykes (formerly called Sr Pre-Novice) is for 6 year olds who have 1 or 2 years of Initiation Program Experience (CHIP, Mites). These players are ready to play the game on full ice.

Evaluation Practices
Mass practices for the Tykes and Mites will be held at the beginning of the 2009-10 season to evaluate each player’s skill. The mass practice helps the instructors determine which program is the right fit for your child(ren). In certain cases, the IP Director or lead instructor may recommend a change in programs (i.e. Mite to Tyke) to better accommodate your child's skill level. If a change is required, this will be communicated to you in writing. An additional fee is associated with a move from Mite to Tyke.

Click here for fee information or to register your child.



My player has never skated before. Can she still participate?
Absolutely. CHIP is for players still learning to skate.

My player can already skate, where should I put him?
If you are unsure which level your player is at, let us determine that. We can advise you where they belong based on our determination of their skill level.

My player is 7 year old and just a beginner, where should she be?
A beginner is still a beginner whether she is 4 or 7. There are always some older players in CHIP and this is the best way to introduce them to hockey. Eventually they will catch up to their age group.

I am a new hockey parent, how do I learn?
We were all new at one point. The Initiation Program offers every parent an orientation session designed to teach the new hockey parent about the IP, equipment and safety.

I think my player is much more advanced than the other players. Can he play in a higher level?
As Certified Instructors, we are trained to evaluate skill and in most case, in a better position to make that call. Your player may be missing some very important skill training if she skips a level and it can be very detrimental to a player’s development if he plays at a level beyond his capabilities.

Why don’t they play real games?
A player must learn the skills of hockey before putting them into practice. Putting a player into a high pressure situation such as an official game may be too stressful. We have found that introducing the players slowly to games is best for all players regardless of skill level. Remember, a player develops her skills in practice, not games.

What's with the blue pucks?
The blue pucks are actually lightweight 4-ounce pucks. An official puck is 6 ounces. It is easier to handle for less physically developed players and is used internationally. After all, every other sport uses downsized equipment for younger players, now hockey does too.

Why do Mite players play on half ice?
On any Mite team, there is a wide variation of skill. The smaller ice surface allows less skilled players to join the play and touch the puck more often.

Who can I contact for more information?
If you have any questions, please contact chips@ancasterminorhockey.com.