Mite House
Mite House is a developmental program for players that emphasizes continued skill development through the use of teaching stations and cross-ice games. The program introduces players to the game of hockey as a safe and positive experience. This controlled environment is geared toward beginner players and will teach the basic skills of hockey while building self-confidence, teamwork and fair play. This program is open to boys and girls from any local area town.
This program provides a seamless transition to hockey for players who have basic skating ability. Skaters should have basic skating ability in order to participate in the Mite House program.
Ages
What aged players are appropriate for this program?
A Developmental program for players ages 4 through 8 that emphasizes continued skill progression while focusing on the fundamental skills of hockey.
When
What time of the year does this program run?
Mite House runs multiple sessions throughout the year. Generally the time line is as follows:
Session 1: 10/2 - 12/21
Session 2: 1/4 - 2/26
Where
Where are practices and games typically held?
Sessions will be held at ISCC (International Skating Center of Connecticut) unless otherwise specified
Practices
When are practices and how often are they?
Session One:
- Wednesdays: 10/2 through 12/21 at 5:50 - 6:50pm
- Saturdays from 7:50AM - 9:20AM
- No ice 10/12
Second Session:
- Wednesdays: 6:00 - 7:00pm
- Saturdays: 7:50-9:20am
EQUIPMENT
Full Equipment Required
Equipment starter packages and equipment discounts are available at Vincent Sports Shop and Dick's Sporting Goods. All new players receive a SYHA hockey jersey at no additional cost. Please contact the Mite Development Director if assistance is needed with securing equipment.
Extra Costs
What costs beyond registration fees should be expected?
Any tournament play that Mite Development participates in will have an additional cost
*Fees include participation in the annual James Cup tournament and player tee shirt
Frequently Asked Questions
USA Hockey provides resources for coaches and parents to learn about implementation of cross-ice hockey. To learn more, please click HERE.
- Who should you contact to learn more? For more information on the Mite House program, contact Jed Stuart, Mite Development Director (House), Brad Winnett Mite Assistant Development Director (House)
- Who should you contact about Mite Travel? For more information about or Mite Travel program, contact Bryan Lilley, Mite Travel Director
- Do all players need to be registered with USA Hockey to play? All players must be registered with USA Hockey for the 2024-25 season in order to participate. Click HERE to register today! For more information on the Mite House program, contact Jed Stuart, Mite Development Director (House)
What is the James Cup?
The Annual James Cup is held in February each year. Mite House players from Simsbury Youth Hockey and the surrounding area Avon-Canton-Farmington program are invited to participate. The James Cup honors the memory of James Stover, who was a SYHA Mite House player in 2003 when he passed away in a tragic accident. James's zest for life and happy attitude are celebrated in this "just for fun" tournament, where no scores are kept and everybody gets in on the action on the ice. All fees to participate in this rewarding annual event are included in player registration fees.
This year's James Cup will take place on TBD
What is the Gary Loftus Award
Additionally, each year, a Simsbury Mite House player will be awarded the Gary Loftus Award, given in memory of a hockey parent extraordinare, recognizing a player's willingness to work hard while maintaining a positive attitude and exemplary sportsmanship.
2025 Mite House Session One
2025-2026 SYHA Mite House Session 1 Registration Page for new and returning players (boys and girls).
Session One Dates: 10/1 - 12/20
A current USA Hockey registration number is required. If you do not already have one for this season, please register at https://membership.usahockey.com BEFORE registering here.
Price: $450
Register