Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1508840
TEAMS MAY PLAY UP TO 10 FULL-ICE EVENTS WITH INTERMEDIATE NETS AFTER JAN. 15 MINNESOTA HOCKE Y has made slight modifications to its current playing rules for Mites and 8U teams. W hile the current standard play for Mites and 8U continues to be cross or half-ice games, beginning Jan. 15, associations may let their Mite and 8U teams play up to 10 full-ice events (including league games, exhibition games, jamboree games and controlled scrimmages) in the 2023 -24 season. T his will be an increase in the allowance of full-ice events from two in the 2022-23 season. T he Mini Mite and 6U level will not be impacted by this rule change, as those teams will continue to play their games on cross or half-ice, as this is in the best interest of their development at a young age. Additionally, Intermediate nets, which are 4' wide by 3' high, will be required in these events, and associations must get approval from their District Director before they are allowed to play in the events. T he District Director 's decision will be final. T his rule change was approved by USA Hockey and will go into ef fect in the 2023 -24 season. " W hile Minnesota Hockey still firmly believes and highly recommends all Mite and 8U games be played on cross or half-ice, this exemption creates oppor tunities for player development for the players who are aging out of Mites and 8U," said Minnesota Hockey 's Vice President of Hockey Operations, Jeremy Reed. " We hope this slight change, combined with the requirement to use Intermediate- sized nets, will provide for a great experience as these players end their Mite and 8U years." W hile teams will be allowed to play up to 10 full-ice events, there is no requirement to play any full-ice events should they decide that they are not needed. Cross or half-ice games promote more puck touches for all, quicker-decision making amongst players and better utilization of the ice sur face, to name just a few benefits. However, Minnesota Hockey also recognizes that approximately 25% CHANGES TO MITE/8U PLAYING RULES ON! MHJ // 2023-2024 MINNESOTA HOCKEY SEASON PRIMER 16 Beginning Jan. 15, associations may let their Mite and 8U teams play up to 10 full-ice events.