CHIPS FAQ
The Canadian Hockey Initiation Program (CHIP) 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.
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.
What age is CHIPs for?
This program is for 4 year olds as of December 31 this year with or without skating experience, or for any player new to hockey. You cannot be younger than 4 but you can be older than 4 to participate.
How do register my child?
Click the link below to register your child. The cost to register is $475.
Online Registration
When registering, the system will automatically place your child in the age division according to their birthdate. If you have any registration questions please email [email protected]. The deadline to register is September 15th.
We at Ancaster Minor Hockey League do our best to make sure your child is playing at the skill level that is appropriate to his development.
Depending on your child's skill level, which will be determined at an evaluation practice, they may be be placed in a lower or higher division.
What is the schedule?
Players in CHIP play Saturday mornings at Spring Valley Arena at 8am, 9am or 10am, depending on their skill level.
Who are the instructors?
Kelly Reed Hockey and Powerskating will provide instruction for all CHIPs sessions this upcoming season.
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.
Are parents allowed on the ice with CHIPs skaters?
The AMHL uses a professional hockey development organization to run the Initiation Program. In order to improve the program parent volunteers will not freely be allowed on the ice. There are however certain roles (such as station assistant, people mover, etc.) that will be required. The minimum certification for this is SpeakOut / PRS, but additional certifications such as Initiation Coach training are preferred.
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 their skills in practice, not games.
What's with the blue pucks?
The blue pucks are lightweight 4-ounce pucks. An official puck is 6 ounces. It is easier to handle for less physically developed players and is used internationally. Most sports use smaller 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.
Do players have to wear full equipment?
Yes, all players in CHIP, Mite and Tyke have to wear full equipment for safety reasons.
• CSA approved Hockey helmet & face mask
• Neck guard (BNQ certified)
• Mouth guard
• Shoulder / Chest Protection
• Elbow Pads
• Knee / Shin pads
• Hockey Pants
• Suspenders if needed
• Protective Cup/Jill
• Garter / Velcro for hockey socks
• Hockey Gloves
• Hockey Skates
• Hockey Stick
• Team Jersey and matching hockey socks are provided by the league at the first ice time.
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].