What is the difference between a Mite and 8U?

Mites and 8U are groups that have the same date of birth requirements but Mite is a co-ed level while 8U is a girls-only level.  Girls are able to select which level they would like to participate in during registration.  If you are unsure which to choose, feel free to reach out to the Assistant Hockey Director, Zach Feltman, who leads the Mite/8U groups at zfeltman@westfargohockey.com .

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Mites have varying levels for co-ed and to ensure skaters are learning at a level they can be successful at.  8U teams have smaller numbers so skills can be taught in smaller groups.  Level will be determined by the Assistant Hockey Director based off of like-skills at that level.
• Skaters will be on the ice 2-4 times per week for 60 minutes.   
• Focus continues on skill development and fun with station-based practices along with games to put those skills in action!
• Coached by parent coaches led by the Assistant Hockey Director. 
• Success is found is in their effort and behavior.   There are some days where we know we won't give our best effort or have our best behavior.  It's ok to take those days off as players and parents to ensure we are able to give it our best when we do make it!
• Teams have fun names to make a fun environment and build teamwork!
• Each team has team manager who helps with the off-ice activities such as photo distribution, team parties, etc.  This individual will fulfill their season requirement of 10 dibs (volunteer units) upon successful completion of this role. 
• Mites and 8U may hold or participate in jamborees locally throughout the season to bring teams together at their level and celebrate the sport of hockey!
• Travel may be an option if your team chooses to participate in an out-of-town jamboree but players are not required to participate. 
• There are no formal tryouts, but your player will be evaluated to ensure they are playing at a caliber level with those around them.
• Goalie equipment will be used to allow players exposure to the gear and the position. 

Mites Practices/Games: (May be subject to change)

• Tuesdays/Fridays- practices (between 5:00-8:00pm) at Vets Arena
• Sundays- games (between 11:30am-6:00pm) at Hoist Arena

*Some practices and games may be at the Hoist Arena and The Lights Outdoor Arena.

8U Practices/Games: (May be subject to change)

• Tuesdays/Fridays- practices (between 5:00-8:00pm) at Vets Arena
• Saturdays- games (10:00am or later) at Hoist Arena
  • Games may be played against teams from West Fargo,  Fargo, and Moorhead.

*Some practices may be held at Hoist Arena and some practices/games may be at the Lights Outdoor Arena.

Key Dates:

July 1        Registration Opens
July 15     Last Day of  Early Bird Discount  -Returning Players Only.  New players get early bird discount through registration closure. 
Oct 18      Registration Closes at Midnight
TBD           Level Parent Meetings
Dec 21- 25   Holiday Break
Mar 5        Anticipated Last Event of the Season
*Dates subject to change. 

More information about Key Dates can always be found here on our website: https://www.westfargohockey.com/keydates .

COST OF HOCKEY FOR MITES AND 8U NEW TO USA HOCKEY

COST OF HOCKEY FOR RETURNING MITES AND 8U

*USA Hockey membership varies based on your date of birth.  Click here to find out more.  
**Players New to USA Hockey receive $150 off of the regular $275 registration for first-year mite/8U players.
***Jerseys belonging to WFHA will be assigned to these players to be returned at the end of the season.  Socks will be provided by WFHA.