Mites / 8U

The Mite/8U levels form the foundation of the Becker Big Lake Youth Hockey Association! We are committed to fostering skill development, healthy competition, sportsmanship, and teamwork within the program.

Position Definitions

During registration, you will be asked to select your players position. Please use the following guide to select the correct answer: 

Returning Player: Player who has played for BBLYHA previously. 

New Family: Player/family are new to BBLYHA.

New Player: Player that is part of a family who has played BBLYHA previously. (i.e., has older siblings who play)

PBBL Player: New or returning Princeton Becker Big Lake girls player

Does my child have to know how to skate to start hockey?

No. The BBLYHA Mite program is a developmental program designed to teach all kids the fundamental skills necessary to play the game of hockey, as well as the elementary concepts of the game itself. Skating is the most fundamental of these skills and a major focus of the entire Mite program.

At what Mite level do I register my child?

Players must register for the appropriate level according to their birth date. After completing evaluations, players will be approved to play-up based on evaluation results.

Do I need the player's birth certificate in order to register?

If you registered your child with BBLYHA last year and submitted their birth certificate, we will have already ensured the birth certificate was officially recorded with USA Hockey.

If you are new to the program, we are required to receive a copy of the child’s birth certificate and verify it through USA Hockey before processing the registration forms. All copies of birth certificates or passports are deleted or destroyed after final approval.

Can I help coach my child's team?

Yes, as long as you complete the required steps to become certified as a Mite coach through USA Hockey, Minnesota Hockey, and BBLYHA. You will be asked if you want to coach during the registration process for your player. You will also need to register as a Coach with BBLYHA, Register as a Coach with USA Hockey, and complete all required training and background checks before you can take the ice with your child.

What are evaluations?

The evaluation consists of four timed drills that include the types of skills most players of this age have learned (or started to learn). Each player will have the opportunity to practice the drills during preskate and practice sessions. Evaluation day is when the timed evaluations take place. Players will run through each drill twice, with their fastest time counting towards their total. Players are then placed on teams with other players of similar skill.

Does my player have to do evaluations?

No, Mite players will be rostered to the level of play based on their birthdate in accordance with District 10 and Minnesota Hockey. Players only need to complete evaluations if they would like to play up.