The Novice age group is for kids approximately 5 to 7 years old who are playing their first year of organized hockey. The NVHA Novice team plays in the Novice division of the Greater Springfield League (GSL). The GSL follows the American Development Model or ADM, a nationwide model for successfully developing American hockey players. The ADM recommends that for younger players, the ice surface be divided into sections and multiple cross-ice games be played simultaneously. This results in a better experience for the players with more chances to handle the puck and it also substantially reduces the cost to each team. More information on the ADM can be found here. The games in the Novice division of the GSL are played in a 3-on-3 cross-ice format using a smaller than normal goal and no goalies. Coaches are on the ice to help the kids. No score is kept in these games and the emphasis is on fun and participation. The Novice season is divided into three 8-week sessions. Players and teams can decide to play in one, two or all three sessions. Our home rink is Lossone Rink at the Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, MA. The Novice team practices Saturday mornings at our home rink. The Novice team plays one cross-ice game on Sunday morning at the Olympia Ice Rink in West Springfield Cost $150 per 8 week session with session dates:
This team is entirely suitable for beginners with little or no skating or hockey experience. It is very low-key, fun and non-competitive. If you have any questions about your child's readiness for this program, please contact kjslough@gmail.com or any of the coaches listed below. To register, please click here. Coaches |
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Teams >
Novice (5 to 7 years old) |