Frequently Asked Questions
This section is designed to answer most of the questions we receive from parents of children interested in joining our Hockey Program. If your question is not listed below, please contact us.
- How do I get started?
- Where are games/practices held?
- My child has never ice-skated before. How can he/she play ice hockey?
- Does my child have to know how to ice-skate to play ice hockey?
- What does it cost to play?
- How long does the season run, and how often will my child play?
- How many times a week will my child play?
- What are Pre-Tryout Clinics, and are they mandatory?
- What kind of equipment is needed?
- How do I obtain equipment?
How do I get started?
Our program has an Open registration period beginning in early August for the upcoming fall/winter season. Information on how to register is posted in our Registration section. You may also choose to register in person at the Eden Prairie Community Center, and dates will be posted on our website.
Where are games/practices held?
Rookie Camp and Mite practices or games will be held at the Velocity Hockey Center in Eden Prairie, or the Eden Prairie Community Center. Mite Travel Games may be arranged by your Coach on a limited basis. For all other levels, the majority of practices will be held at the Eden Prairie Community Center, some at Velocity Hockey Center, and additional outdoor practices once outdoor rinks are available. Squirt Level on up travel for District games and tournaments throughout the season. Mite travel is limited.
My child has never ice-skated before. How can he/she play ice hockey?
The EPHA runs a Rookie Camp for young beginners. Rookie Camp is free and helps teach your child the game of hockey and basic fundamentals of skating. For older beginners( 8 years and above) there are plenty of options for learning how to play hockey, but each individual is different based on experience and ability. Please contact a Board Member for information.
Does my child have to know how to ice-skate to play ice hockey?
A child does not have to know how to ice-skate to join the league, but he/she does have to play on skates (i.e. players can't run around on the ice in their shoes) Our Rookie Camp program provides an excellent way to get started. Also, skating with roller blades is a great way to prepare for ice-skating. Skating on roller blades is very similar to skating on ice skates. Roller hockey players usually do quite well making the transition to ice hockey.
What does it cost to play?
EPHA fees are set at the beginning of registration based on estimates for: ice usage, number of players, costs for jerseys and socks, costs for referees, and some other small incidental costs. The EPHA is a nonprofit organization.
Ice hockey is not an inexpensive sport. The EPHA pays $185 for every hour of ice it uses at the EPCC or Velocity. By relying heavily on its volunteers, the EPHA is able to maintain lower Registration fees by sponsoring tournaments at every level, and running various fundraising events throughout the year.
How long does the season run, and how often will my child play?
Pre-Tryout Clinics start in early September, with tryouts commencing in early October, depending on level. All levels are playing by the 2nd week of November, with the typical season ending in early to Mid March.
How many times a week will my child play?
Mites and Girls 6U and 8U mostly play on Saturday and Sunday. When outdoor rinks are available, they will skate outdoors once or twice a week as weather allows. Squirts on up will be on the ice 3-5 times per week.
What are Pre-Tryout Clinics, and are they mandatory?
Pre Tryout clinics are a way for the kids to work on their skills expected of them during tryouts, get used to being on the ice, and having fun with their hockey buddies.
What kind of equipment is needed?
Under USA Hockey rules, players are required to wear an approved helmet with mask, shoulder pads, mouthguard, neckguard, gloves, shinguards, athletic cup, elbow pads, skates, and stick.
How do I obtain equipment?
Equipment can be purchased new at local Sporting goods stores, or bought used online.
