New Hockey Parents

Welcome to Janesville Youth Hockey

Thinking about introducing your child to the exciting world of skating and hockey? Janesville Youth Hockey (JYH) is the perfect place to get started.

We proudly welcome boys and girls from Janesville, Milton, Whitewater, Edgerton, Elkhorn, and surrounding communities. Hockey is a fun, fast-paced sport that helps children build confidence, develop lifelong friendships, stay active, and learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

Our season begins in September/October and runs through early March. We also offer spring and summer development opportunities to help players continue improving their skating and hockey skills throughout the year.

Just Starting Out

Most children begin skating and playing hockey between the ages of 3 and 6, but there is no "perfect" age to start. Many successful players discover hockey later in childhood and quickly develop a love for the game.

Whether your child has never stepped on the ice or has some skating experience, JYH offers programs designed to make learning fun, welcoming, and age-appropriate.

Try Hockey for Free

Our Try Hockey for Free (THFF) events are offered several times throughout the season and provide the perfect opportunity to experience hockey without any commitment.

Players are introduced to the game in a fun, safe environment while learning basic skating and hockey skills. Skates, sticks, helmets, and most equipment are provided, making it easy for families to give hockey a try.

These events are also a great opportunity to meet our coaches, ask questions, and learn more about Janesville Youth Hockey.

Intro to Hockey

Our Intro to Hockey program is designed for first-time skaters and new hockey players who want to learn the fundamentals of the game.

Players participate in age-appropriate practices that focus on:

• Basic skating skills
• Balance and coordination
• Stickhandling
• Passing and shooting
• Fun games and activities that build confidence

Practices are organized into small skill stations, allowing players to receive individual attention while learning at their own pace.

Equipment is provided, so families can experience hockey before investing in their own gear.

Our goal is simple: create a positive, enjoyable first hockey experience that helps every child develop a love for skating and the game of hockey.

If you'd like, I can also Rewrite this page to match the same "Fun and Fundamentals" philosophy used throughout the rest of the JYH Player Development Guide, making all of your website content read as one consistent document.

If your child is enjoying the game the next step is mapped out for you as USA Hockey programs are based on their birth year. These programs practice at least 1-2 times a week, play games on the weekends, and participate in a few tournaments during the season.

6U (Mini Mites)  

 5-6 years old

8U Red, White, & Blue (Mites)

7-8 years old

10U (Squirts)

9-10 years old

12U (PeeWees)

11-12 years old

14U (Bantams)

13-14 years old



Intro through 8U have the option to rent all equipment from the club.  When your child reaches 10U it is smart to begin purchasing your own as it will be better fitted & protective for full ice hockey.

• Skates
• Helmet
• Shin Guards
• Breezers
• Chest/Body Protector
• Elbow Pads
• Gloves
• Pelvic Protection