Mini-Mites/Mites Information
Welcome to Mite Hockey!
We’re excited to have you begin your hockey journey with us. This page will serve as the main resource for all Mini Mite and Mite program updates.
Our goals for each player at every practice and game:
- Keep a positive attitude, have fun, and work hard to build skills.
- Practice teamwork and sportsmanship while building positive relationships.
- Learn and follow the rules of the game.
- Show respect for coaches, teammates, parents, opponents, and officials.
Mini Mites
What is a Mini-Mite?
WSPHA’s Mini-Mite program introduces boys and girls ages 4–7 to hockey in a fun, developmental setting. Players are on the ice for up to one hour each Saturday and Sunday morning from early November through early March (We do take some weekends off during the season).
Where do we skate at?
West Saint Paul Ice Arena, St. Thomas Ice Arena and potentially at Drake Ice Arena or West Side Ice Arena.
How much does Mini-Mites Cost?
First year Mini-Mites will have their WSPHA fees waived for the season. To qualify, the player must skate during the season at the Mini-Mite Level and have previously not played Association hockey or obtained a USA Hockey number.
Families can also take advantage of our free equipment leasing program, helping make hockey affordable and accessible. Please contact the mite director at the bottom of this page for more information.
We encourage your child—and their friends—to come experience the excitement of hockey!
For additional information, click the buttons below for the Minnesota Hockey and USA Hockey Parents page.
Mites (1, 2, 3)
What to Expect
Our Mite program helps players progress from beginners to advanced skaters through age-appropriate, skill-based development. At the start of each season, independent evaluators place players at the level that best matches their skills. Skating with peers of similar ability accelerates development, builds confidence, and ensures plenty of puck touches.
Program Highlights:
- Three levels of Mites (Mite 1, Mite 2, Mite 3) with natural progression from Mini-Mites upward.
- Station-based, age-appropriate drills designed to develop key skills including skating, stick handling, passing, and shooting for players at all levels.
- Heightened focus on skating skills at all stages, with edge work emphasized at higher levels.
- Fun, passionate coaches dedicated to early hockey development.
Mite 1
For players moving up from Mini-Mites or advancing beginners. Focus on skating fundamentals with basic introduction to puck handling and passing. In December, bi-weekly in-house games begin, with one jamboree included in the season.
Mite 2
For players progressing from Mite 1 or ready to advance directly. Emphasis on skating, edge work, and building puck-handling, passing, and shooting skills. In-house games begin mid-December, with inter-association games starting in January. Includes one jamboree.
Mite 3
The highest Mite level, for players with advanced skills. Focus on skating, passing, shooting, puck control, and team concepts such as backchecking and defense. Teams play games against other associations and may participate in multiple jamborees.