New To Hockey?
Farmington Youth Hockey Association (FYHA)
Welcome to Hockey: FYHA Mission Statement
The Farmington Youth Hockey Association (FYHA) is dedicated to the organization and advancement of youth hockey for all boys and girls. We strive to foster an environment of sportsmanship, collective teamwork, and personal growth on the ice. Our association provides comprehensive hockey programming for skaters ranging from Pre-Kindergarten through High School.
Program Overview & Age Classifications
FYHA provides programs for skaters of all skill levels, from beginners learning to skate to advanced competitive players. Below is our structural breakdown for the season:
| Program / Level | Season Length | Target Age / School Grade | Estimated Season Cost | Ice Frequency (Per Week) | Jamborees/Tournaments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tiger Cubs | December - March | Pre-K - Kindergarten | FREE | 1 hour | N/A |
| U6, U8, Mites | October - March | Kinder-3rd Grade | Registration Fee + Team Fee | 2-3 hours | 1-2 jamborees + Mite Meltdown |
| U10, Squirts | Mid September - early March | 4th - 5th Grade | Tryout fee, Registration Fee, Monthly Ice Bills | 4-5 hours | 1-2 out of town tournaments and 2-3 local tournaments |
| U12, Peewees | Mid September - early March | 6th - 7th Grade | Tryout fee, Registration Fee, Monthly Ice Bills | 4-5 hours | 1-2 out of town tournaments and 2-3 local tournaments |
| U15, Bantams | Mid September - early March | 8th - 9th Grade | Tryout fee, Registration Fee, Monthly Ice Bills | 4-5 hours | 1-2 out of town tournaments and 2-3 local tournaments |
| Junior Gold | Will begin after HS tryouts have ended - early March | 10th - 12th Grade | Tryout fee, Registration Fee, Monthly Ice Bills | 4-5 hours | 1-2 out of town tournaments and 2-3 local tournaments |
New to Hockey FAQ
Players can join FYHA in Pre-Kindergarten.
Yes - but only the basics. If your child has never skated before please consider a Learn to Skate program before registering for FYHA.
Youth hockey is a family-oriented experience! Parents contribute by actively assisting the association through seasonal commitments, providing enthusiastic support for their athlete’s team, prioritizing personal growth, and cultivating a positive rink environment.
Required Equipment Checklist
- HECC Certified Hockey Helmet: Must have a full face cage and valid expiration date sticker.
- Mouth Guard: Colored (not clear) and attached to the helmet cage.
- Neck Guard: Certified cut-resistant neck protection (required for all youth players).
- Shoulder Pads: Properly fitted to protect the chest, spine, and collarbones.
- Elbow Pads: Should overlap slightly with gloves and shoulder pads.
- Hockey Gloves: Snug fit with good finger mobility, protecting the wrists.
- Hockey Pants (Breezers): Padded protection for hips, lower back, and thighs.
- Shin Guards: Sized to fit comfortably under the pant leg down to the top of the skate boot.
- Athletic Supporter & Cup / Jill: Built-in shorts with velcro tabs are highly recommended.
- Hockey Skates: Properly sharpened and fitting securely (usually 1 to 1.5 sizes smaller than standard street shoes).
- Hockey Stick: Cut to the proper height (typically up to the nose when in street shoes, or the chin when on skates).
- Jerseys & Socks: Lower Level players will be provided with a jersey and socks. Upper Level players will be required to purchase their own.
New Player Checklist
Pre-Season Preparation
- FYHA Registration: Ensure your player is officially registered with the association.
- USA Hockey Membership: Complete the mandatory national registration process.
- Gear Procurement: Secure all necessary equipment.
- Preseason Ice: Join scheduled skating sessions.
Season Kick-Off
- Team Meetings: Participate in introductory sessions to meet coaches and staff.
- Communication Apps: Set up the crossbar mobile application for real-time updates.
- Calendar Review: Carefully examine the seasonal schedule for practices and games.
Ongoing Seasonal Expectations
- Player Development: Arrive at the rink focused and ready for instruction.
- Volunteerism: Assist the association by fulfilling your DIBS and volunteer roles.
Arena & Facilities Contact Information
The primary home ice for Farmington Youth Hockey is Schmitz-Maki Arena, along with local regional facilities used for district play.
- Schmitz-Maki Arena, Farmington
- Burnsville Ice Arena, Burnsville
- Shattuck - St. Mary’s, Fairbault (upper levels)
- Outdoor Ice (weather permitting), Farmington and Lakeville
Parent Volunteer Commitments (DIBS)
Like most youth hockey associations in Minnesota, FYHA relies heavily on volunteer support to run tournaments, manage clock operations, staff the concession stands, and organize events.
- Volunteer Requirements per Family: 4 hours for Tiger Cubs and U15/Junior Gold, 10 hours for all other levels.
- Volunteer Deposit Check Amount: $500 (This check is held and only cashed if volunteer hours are not fulfilled by the end of the season).