Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the philosophy behind travel hockey?
The Bloomington Blades Youth Hockey Association is dedicated to providing an opportunity for
children between the ages of 6 and 12 to play ice hockey in a competitive, organized manner under the
instruction and supervision of qualified coaches. The program welcomes all children with an interest in
playing hockey. In addition to providing a structured format to enjoy the game, BBYHA also strives to
help children develop their athletic skills, sense of citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play.
How is “travel hockey” different from “house hockey?”
“House hockey” is a local, recreational hockey league administered by Bloomington Parks and
Recreation. Typically, the house league plays twice per week for one hour. One session is dedicated to
practice and skill development. The second session is a game. All hockey players in Bloomington are
required to participate in the house league.
“Travel hockey” is administered by BBYHA and provides an opportunity for players to compete
regionally against other teams. Travel players will play twice per week in the house league. There will
also be one or two additional practices during the week (depending on the age level). Games are
played on weekends. The number of games and the travel distances vary with the league. In general,
the Mites travel less frequently and stay close to home while the Squirts and Pee-Wees participate in
more organized leagues and have a busier travel schedule.
When is the hockey season?
The hockey season begins when Frank Southern Ice Rink opens in early October. Optional travel
practices are usually held during the first two weeks of the month. The season officially starts in mid-
October when the house league begins. Some travel games may occur as early as the first or second
week of the season. The season continues until early March and ends with the closing of Frank
Southern around spring break.
For the 2008-2009 Season, pre-season travel hockey registration will begin in June. Optional pre-
season practices will be held in Columbus starting in early August.
What are the age levels?
The Mites are the youngest team with players ranging from age 6 to 8. The Squirts are 9 to 10 years
old. Mites and Squirts compete in non-checking leagues. Pee-Wees are age 11 to 12. This is the first
level for checking.
How are players selected for the travel team?
All players interested in playing travel hockey must play in the house league. Once they are registered
for house league, all players may participate in travel hockey. One of the major goals of BBYHA is to
foster long-term enjoyment and skill development in hockey. We welcome participation from everyone.
Generally, there are no try-outs or cuts for travel hockey. We make every effort to insure that everyone
who wants to play will be given the opportunity to play. There are roster limitations in some cases,
however.
How often are practices?
House league requires two on-ice sessions per week with the first being a practice and the second a
house game. Travel teams will have one or two additional practices per week (depending on age) and
will play games on the weekends.
How much travel is required?
The amount of travel varies with the team. The older teams (Squirts and Pee Wees) will play almost
every weekend between late October and early March (excluding holidays). Since each team will travel
for half of their games, there are generally two weekends of traveling per month. The Mites have a less
active schedule with fewer games closer to home.
Who are the coaches?
This year’s head coaches are:
Mites Blair Alexander
Squirts Dean Foster
Pee Wees Nick Lighfoot
Head coaches will select their own assistants. All coaches are certified through USA Hockey
educational programs and are subject to BBYHA Board approval.
What level of commitment is expected?
The player’s first commitment is to the house league with the expectation that he/she will attend the
house practice and game each week. For those players ready to make the commitment to travel
hockey, attendance at one additional practice session per week and presence at the majority of
games (both home and away) is expected. BBYHA recognizes that many factors contribute to a
player's attendance at this age and gives the coaches wide discretion in determining whether a player
is meeting their obligation to the team.
Where can I learn about and obtain hockey equipment?
For those children who are new to the game, the best place to learn about and obtain hockey
equipment is at the annual BBYHA “equipment swap” in October. Often, coaches, parents and players
attend the swap and can provide information about all of the basic equipment required to get started
playing. Second-hand equipment can be purchased at the swap. BBYHA also has an equipment rental
program that provides a low-cost alternative to buying equipment. For players who would like to buy
new equipment, there are a variety of local retail and internet options.
How much does it cost?
There are two separate fees for travel hockey. The first fee covers the cost of participation in the
house hockey league and is paid directly to Bloomington Parks and Recreation. The cost of the house
league is generally $175-200 per season.
The second fee goes to BBYHA and is used to cover the costs of the travel program, including ice
time, referee wages, USA Hockey dues, jerseys and registration fees. The travel cost will vary for each
team depending on the number of games played during the season. For the 2008-2009 Season,
anticipated costs are $900 PeeWee, $800 Squirt and $600 Mite. Travel payments can be made as a
one time payment at the start of the season or through a variety of payment plans that allow up to five
payments spread throughout the season.
BBYHA offers scholarship support for players who wish to play travel hockey but find the financial
costs prohibitive.