When youngsters take up ice hockey, they are likely to play recreationally with friends, neighbors and siblings, but once a decision is made to play on an organized basis, there are several levels that offer young people the opportunity to learn the fundamentals and play at a non-competitive level. One of those is the squirt level.
Squirt Level
According to USA Hockey, squirt level hockey is for 9- and 10-year-old players. Players younger than that play in the mite division. The goal of squirt hockey is to help players learn the fundamentals of the game, which includes skating, shooting, passing, stick handling and team play. Players are given the chance to play in a non-competitive environment with an emphasis on learning and enjoyment.
Fundamental Skills
USA Hockey emphasizes teaching players the fundamental skills during practice sessions. This means players get dressed in full hockey uniforms and work on their skating, puck handling and play making. Coaches are encouraged to show youngsters how to skate forward, backward and to stop. Coaches demonstrate the proper way to hold the stick, how to pass, how to receive a pass and the proper way to shoot the puck. Players are given opportunities in practice sessions to demonstrate these skills.
Tactical Preparation
One of the keys to squirt level hockey is to teach players the proper time to use basic strategies. Players have to be taught when to pass the puck out of the zone and when to carry it. They need a basic understanding of when to shoot the puck and how to shoot it. For example, a player who is eight to 10 feet in front of the net does not have to take a slap shot when a wrist shot will help him put the puck where he wants it to go. Coaches have to go over game situations with players so they are prepared.
Games And Practices
Players should have a 3-to-1 practice-to-game ratio. A squirt hockey season should not be more than 25 games. If you play the maximum number of games, you should have 75 practices. Practice time will help players learn the game faster than playing in a game and that's why USA Hockey emphasizes practice so heavily.
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