Mite Instructional League
The Mite Instructional hockey program is an in-house cross-ice league. It promises fun and instructive basic skills for any boy or girl who wishes to master the fundamentals of hockey.
Ages
Players are typically between 5-8 years-old and have basic skating skills of turning and stopping.
When
Season begins in September and runs through the end of February.
Where
All practices and games are held at the Graf Rink in Newburyport.
Practices
Teams have two practices per week. One practice mid-week and the other Sunday morning.
Games
The Jr. Maples play in the Graf Instructional League. Teams will play 20-22 games over the course of the season. The Jr. Maples will play teams from other surrounding communities. All games are on Saturday afternoon at either 4PM or 5PM
Jerseys
Mite Instructional jerseys are provided with the cost of tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does my player need to tryout?
A: No, Mite-Instructional players will be placed on a team at the begining of the season. No tryouts necessary.
Q: My child wants to play but is brand new to skating. Is this the right program?
A: We also offer Learn-to-Skate and Learn-to-Play Hockey programs each fall and winter. We will work with your family to make sure your player is placed in the correct program that helps foster a love for the sport and develop at the right pace.
Q: My player is younger than 5-years-old and is ready OR my player is 9+ year-old but wants to play. What are my options?
A: You definitely have options. Contact the league and we will address these skaters on a case-by-case basis with your family.
Q: I heard hockey happens early in the morning. How early do you all start?
A: We try to keep the super early morning practices to a minimum. You won't have a practice that starts before 7AM on the weekend. The weeknight practice is usually held at 5PM.
Q: Is hockey a Fall sport?! Can my child play hockey and play soccer?
A: YES, to both. Mite-Instructional starts up in September but we encourage you to keep playing other sports too. Playing multiple sports prevents injuries, develops sports IQ, and keeps your young player from getting burned out.
Q: What about Neck Guards?
A: USA Hockey will require the use of neck laceration protection on August 1, 2024, for players in all age classifications, except adults, in games and practices – as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18.
2024-2025 SEASON
Welcome to the Mite Instructional League!
This is a house league that plays 3v3 cross ice, designed for players just starting their hockey career.
Mite Instructional is open to any player between the ages of 5-8 who have completed a Learn-to-Skate / Learn-to-Play Hockey program and have basic skating skills of turning and stopping.
Tryouts are not required for Mite Instructional
The cost of this program is $975.