Initiation Program (U7)

The Initiation Program (U7) is a structured, learn-to-play hockey program designed to introduce beginners to the game's basic skills. For an overview of the IP program, please visit Hockey Canada or Hockey Eastern Ontario.

The Cumberland Minor Hockey Association provides U7 programming for 4, 5 and 6 year old hockey players.

The registration process and its fees can be found on the Registration page.

It is important to note that the U7 program is ran entirely by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, please indicate it either during the player registration process or by contacting the U7 convenor.

FAQs

1. Are there early morning practices?
2. Where do the U7 teams play?
3. Do I need to volunteer?
4. What is the Respect in Sport for Hockey Canada Parents program?
5. Does my child need to know how to skate?
6. What equipment will my child need?
7. What are U7 Fun Days?

  1. Are there early morning practices?

Yes! U7 players typically play Saturday and/or Sunday mornings to mid-afternoon. Sessions can start as early as 6am and run for 50 minutes. Teams are rotated through the time slots to ensure no one team is assigned to the early time slot every week. This also means that we cannot ensure certain times/sessions for players. U7-A teams should expect 1 session per week (Saturday or Sunday) while U7-B teams will typically have 2 sessions every weekend.​​

  1. Where do the U7 teams play?

Cumberland Minor Hockey teams play in the following arenas:

  • R.J. Kennedy (Cumberland)
  • Navan Memorial
  • Ray Friel Recreation Centre

On occasions, coaches may decide to play optional "games" against other U7 organizations. The team coach will provide details if they occur.

  1. Do I need to volunteer?

Volunteering is not mandatory. However, all U7 teams must have a Head Coach, 5-6 Assistant Coaches, Manager, Treasurer and 2-3 Trainers. If these positions are not filled, the team cannot take the ice. Full details, including training requirements, can be found here: Volunteering.

  1. What is the Respect in Sport for Hockey Canada Parents program?

Full details can be found here: Mandatory Parent Training. A parent/guardian from each household MUST TAKE RIS-Parent BEFORE their player begins their FIRST REGULAR SEASON session (for U7 participants) or game (for U9 and above).  Once taken, it is good for life.

  1. Does my child need to know how to skate?​

It would be best if your child had some confidence on their skates. U7 is a hockey program, not a learn to skate program. Learn to skate programs are offered by CanSkate and the City of Ottawa.

  1. What equipment will my child need?

Full equipment, including a stick and neck guard are required for a player to participate. Please click HERE for more information. Parents are to provide all equipment for their children.

  1. What are U7 Fun Days?

U7 Fun Days are tournament style "games" where players play against other U7 teams. The team coach will provide details when they will occur.

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