KMHA House League Program Overview
KMHA House League Program Overview
Welcome
Welcome to the Kanata Minor Hockey Association (KMHA) House League program! We’re thrilled to have your family join us for an exciting season of recreational hockey. Our dedicated volunteer coaches and team staff, supported by KMHA with training and resources, are committed to ensuring a positive, safe, and fun experience for all players.
What is the KMHA House League Program?
The KMHA House League is designed for players aged U7 to U18, running from September to March. It’s an inclusive, welcoming program for players of all skill levels, fostering a love for hockey, skill development, and confidence. Beyond the ice, players learn valuable life skills like teamwork, commitment, and sportsmanship.
This year, KMHA is excited to introduce the "Skill Up" Development Program, anticipated to begin in October and running on Mondays throughout the season. Stay tuned for more details on this new initiative to enhance player skills!
Age Categories and Divisions by Birth Year
- U7: 2019 & 2020*
- U9: 2017 & 2018
- U11: 2015 & 2016
- U13: 2013 & 2014
- U15: 2011 & 2012
- U18: 2008, 2009, & 2010
*Players born in 2021 may register for the U7 program. Please contact vphl@kmha.ca to discuss prior to registering.
Who Can Play and How to Register?
KMHA House League is open to all players, from first-time skaters to experienced athletes. Everyone who registers is placed on a team, ensuring a supportive environment for all skill levels.
Registration is completed through our online portal. Visit the Registration section of the KMHA website for full details. For questions, contact our Registrars at registrar@kmha.ca.
How Are Teams Created?
Teams are formed through a "sort-out" process in September. Players participate in skill drills and scrimmages, allowing coaches and evaluators to assess abilities in a fun, supportive setting. Based on these evaluations, players are placed on balanced, competitive teams within each age division.
What is the Commitment?
House League teams typically have two ice times per week (Saturday and Sunday), with schedules posted in advance for family planning. Ice times are primarily in Kanata, though our expanding interlock program may include games in Nepean and Ottawa.
Teams from U9 to U18 may participate in up to three tournaments per season, including in-town and out-of-town events, as arranged by team managers. The season wraps up with a tournament-style playoff, followed by a championship game.
How Much Will It Cost?
In addition to registration fees, players pay team fees ($250–$400) to cover tournament entries, extra ice time, exhibition games, and other team activities. Each team presents a transparent budget at the season’s start, voted on by families. Registration fees are posted in the Registration Information section of the KMHA website when available.
What is the Required Equipment?
Players must wear the following CSA-approved equipment at all times on the ice:
- Helmet with full face cage/mask
- Throat protector/neck guard
- Shoulder pads/chest protector
- Elbow pads
- Hockey gloves
- Hockey pants
- Jock or Jill
- Shin guards
- Hockey socks
- Hockey skates
- Jersey (KMHA provides game jerseys; players need a jersey for sort-outs and practices)
- Hockey stick (proper length, taped)
- Hockey water bottle (identified)
Mouth guards are recommended but not mandatory. For equipment fitting guidance, refer to Hockey Canada’s Proper Equipment Fitting video or the Safety Requires Teamwork & Safety for All document (page 66 onward).
Want to Get Involved?
Our House League thrives thanks to our volunteers! Parents and guardians can contribute as coaches, bench assistants, team managers, or event helpers. Volunteering is a great way to connect with the community and support the players. Contact the appropriate convenor to get involved.
Have More Questions?
Reach out to the VP of House League Programs at vphl@kmha.ca for more information.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
