Westonka Mite Hockey
Mites
Westonka Mite Hockey is for boys & girls ages 4-9, in grades Pre-K to 3rd grade. Our program focuses on creating a positive, encouraging atmosphere where young players can develop their skills, grow their confidence, and have fun! Wings Up!
The first year of association hockey registration is FREE, thanks to the generosity of the Thaler Family Foundation.
WESTONKA MITE LEVELS FOR 2026-27 SEASON
New for the 2026/27 season, Westonka now has 5 Mite Levels.
Mini-Mite, Mite 1, Mite 2, Mite 3, Mite 4
See the below table for levels and age/grade.
| Level | Typical Grade | Typical Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mini-Mite | Pre-Kindergarten | No Hockey Experience |
| Mite 1 | Kindergarten, some Pre-K or 1st Graders | 0-1 years of Hockey experience |
| Mite 2 | Primarily 1st, some 2nd or Kindergarten | 1-2 years of Hockey Experience |
| Mite 3 | Primarily 2nd, some 3rd or 1st Graders | 2-3 years Hockey Experience |
| Mite 4 | Primarily 3rd, some 2nd Graders | 3+ Years Hockey Experience |
Mite players will generally play with their grade level, however some players may move up or down a level to best fit their stage of development. Mite 3 & 4 levels (2nd & 3rd Graders) participate in an evaluation at the beginning of the season to align skill level and development. This structure allows teams to compete in games against others of comparable size and skill, promoting a more balanced and enjoyable experience for all.
MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENTS
To play mite hockey for the 2026-27 season, the player must be 4 years old by May 31st, 2026. Minimum age requirements are governed by Minnesota Hockey.
Click the button below for program age classifications.
Where do they play?
Practices & home scrimmages are held at Thaler Ice Arena and Pond Ice Arena, both located in Mound, MN. Scrimmages may be in neighboring communities. If weather permits, there are several practices and scrimmages at the community outdoor rink, located at Shirley Hills Primary School, Mound, MN.
when are Practices? How Often?
Mini Mites: Practice one day a week, Saturdays or Sundays. Mid Nov thru Mid Feb
Mite 1/2: Practices twice a week, Saturday & Sunday. Late Oct thru early Mar
Mite 3/4: Practice 3 days a week, Saturday, Sunday and mid-week. Late Oct thru early Mar.
Games & Jamborees
Each mite level will have the opportunity to participate in scrimmages throughout the year. Younger mites will primarily scrimmage in-house (each other). Older mite levels will scrimmage neighboring associations.
Mite Levels 2, 3, & 4 will participate in one Mite Jamboree near the end of the season. The location and dates are not determined yet.
Jerseys
Jerseys and socks are provided by the Association as part of the registration dues. The registration process will include asking for jersey size, number, and spelling of name on back of jersey.
Mite Evaluations
Evaluations occur for our 2nd & 3rd grader skaters, and some select 1st grader skaters. These evaluations occur the first Saturday & Sunday of the season in late October. The evaluations occur over two days. Day one is a skills evaluation and consists of timed skating drills, with and without pucks. Day two consists of half ice scrimmages.
The intent of evaluations is to align skill levels so kids are playing with and against other kids of similar abilities. The results of the evaluations will be used to determine levels, and teams within those levels. Most kids will play with their grade level. However, if a skater is more/less developed, started hockey earlier/later than their peers, and it would be developmentally appropriate for them to skate with a younger or older grade, the mite coordinator will contact that family directly. It is important that kids gain confidence while playing hockey. Evaluations are an attempt to ensure kids are in the right environment to challenge themselves and grow their confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do they need?
Please see this link, which lists all the required equipment for hockey.
Can my child play if they have never skated before?
Yes. There are no requirements to have skated prior to playing hockey. We recommend that your child attends a learn to skate, rookie camp, or open skating prior to starting hockey, but there is no requirement.
How much does it cost?
Registration for the first year of Association hockey is free, thanks to the Thaler Family Foundation. The only expenses for your first year is a USA hockey membership (starting at approximately $20), then whatever equipment you need to purchase for your skater.
Can I rent equipment?
Yes. Beginner protective equipment is available for rent for the season. The cost to rent is $50. A payment of $250 will be made to Westonka Youth Hockey Association at the time of rental. At the end of the season, when the equipment is returned, a check will be returned to you in the amount of $200, for a net rental fee of $50 for the season.
**Equipment is intended for 1st year skaters. We will strive to equip anyone who is interested in the rental program, but please understand equipment is limited and some sizes may be unavailable**
What level will my mite play?
If your player is in Pre-K, K, or 1st grade, they will start the season with their grade level. During the 1st weekend of practice, coaches and the mite level coordinator will monitor practices to determine if any players would benefit from moving up or down a level. Most players will remain with their grade.
If your player is in 2nd or 3rd grade, they will participate in a mite evaluation, which will occur during the first weekend of the season.
2026-27 Mites
Welcome to the Westonka hockey family. Whether your child is lacing up skates for the first time or moving into another Mite level, we're here to support them every step of the way. Designed for boys & girls ages 4-9, our program focuses on creating a positive, encouraging atmosphere where young players can develop their skills, grow their confidence, and have fun! Wings Up!