Getting to Know Hockey
Welcome to Youth Hockey!
New to the sport? You're in the right place.
At FVHA, we’re thrilled to welcome new families to the game of hockey. Whether your child is lacing up skates for the first time or moving into organized play, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Youth hockey builds more than skills—it creates confidence, teamwork, and lasting friendships.
🏒 Getting Started
1. What level should I start at?
If your child has never skated before or is still learning to skate, consider starting with a learn to skate program or a learn-to-play hockey program.
If your child has experience skating a learn to play hockey program or a house yeti program might be right for them.
If your child has hockey experience, then a travel team may be the correct opportunity for them if you are committed to travel.
If you are unsure, we encourage kids to attend an open skate or a try hockey for free event, so as a parent, you can get an idea of your child's abilities.
2. What Gear Do We Need?
New players typically need:
- Helmet with cage
- Shoulder pads and jersey
- Elbow pads
- Gloves
- Hockey pants (breezers)
- Shin guards and socks
- Skates
- Stick
- Neck guard and mouthguard
- Hockey bag and water bottle
- FVHA often has rental gear available for 8U and 10U. contact us to learn more!
3. When Is the Season?
Our season typically runs from November through February, depending on weather and ice availability. Practices are held on weeknights; games and events happen on weekends.
4. Where Do We Skate?
- Woodland Ice Rink (Kalispell – outdoor rink) 8U and 10U twice a week, 12U-19U once a week
- Stumptown Ice Den (Whitefish – indoor rink) 12U-19U twice a week
- Games, tournaments, and jamborees may take place at Woodland, Stumptown Ice Den, or various locations across Montana, depending on the player’s age and level of play.
5. How Much Does It Cost?
Program fees vary by age group and level. FVHA offers payment plans and scholarships to make hockey accessible for all families. See our registration page for detailed prices.
Our Development Philosophy
FVHA follows USA Hockey’s American Development Model (ADM)—a nationwide program designed to help kids learn and grow through age-appropriate, long-term athlete development.
What does that mean for your child?
- Development over winning: We focus on individual growth and fun—not just scores.
- Age-appropriate training: Practice plans match the cognitive and physical stage of each age group.
- More puck touches and ice time: Smaller-area games and station-based practices help players improve faster.
- A lifelong love of the game: Our goal is to keep kids excited, active, and learning in a positive environment.
We believe hockey should be fun, challenging, and rewarding for every player, no matter their age or skill level.
Parent Involvement
We’re a community-run organization, and parent volunteers make it all possible! Whether it's coaching, running the clock, helping with gear, or cheering from the stands, you're part of the team too—and we’re here to help you get started.
FVHA offers training and support for new parents who want to get involved. We host sessions throughout the season to help families learn the basics of hockey, how games are run, and the many ways you can contribute.
Want to try hockey yourself? Our adult affiliate, WAHA (Wild Adult Hockey Association), offers a Rookie Program—a great way for adults of all ages and experience levels to learn the game in a fun, supportive environment.
What to Expect During the Season
- Team placement/evaluations for travel teams (early season)
- Practice 2–3 times/week
- Games on weekends
- Tournaments (home and away)
- Picture day, team events, and lots of fun!