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2 0 2 6 - 2 7 U S A H O C K E Y N E W PA R E N T H A N D B O O K | 9 THE EIGHT STAGES OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT The ADM follows your child from their first time on skates through a lifetime in the game. 1. Active Start (6U and Learn to Skate): building basic movement skills through fun, active play 2. FUNdamentals (6U and 8U): introducing hockey skills alongside general athleticism 3. Learn to Train (10U and 12U): building a broad foundation of hockey and sport skills 4. Training to Train (14U and 16U): developing good training habits as competition increases 5. Learn to Compete (18U and NTDP): preparing for higher-level competitive environments 6. Train to Compete (Juniors and NCAA): transitioning from training environments to full competition 7. Train to Win (International): the highest level of the game, from pro hockey to the Olympics 8. Hockey for Life (Adult): enjoying the game for a lifetime through recreational and competitive play, coaching, officiating, and more BUILT ON RESEARCH, BACKED BY RESULTS USA Hockey first introduced the ADM in 2009, and its early success led the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee to adopt the same core principles across other sports throughout the country in 2014. Today, the ADM is trusted and utilized by nations around the world, cementing USA Hockey as a global leader in youth sports. Today's Team USA, NHL, and PWHL stars all grew up playing youth hockey, utilizing the ADM. 2026-27 SEASON AGE CLASSIFICATION USA Hockey Playing Season: Sept.1, 2026 - Aug. 31, 2027