OHF Bulletin: 26-005
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF), in collaboration with its four Ontario Minor Hockey Members, has received approval from Hockey Canada to
continue and refine the Under-9 (U9) Full-Ice Hockey pilot for an additional two-year period. This continuation reflects Hockey Canada’s support of a structured, evidence-informed approach to player development that balances long-term development principles, operational feasibility, and competitive realities within the minor hockey system.
This pilot applies exclusively to U9 teams, as defined by each Member (U9 (8-year-olds – MD) or Select - highest tier within each Member)
U9 MD or Select (highest tier within each Member) Program Guidelines
- U9 Minor Development (MD) or Select teams(highest tier within each Member) to participate in full-ice play following a defined development phase.
-For a fully defined seasonal calendar for the U9 MD or Select Teams requirements, please refer to Appendix A: U9 Seasonal Calendar MD and Select
- The total number of approved U9 or Select teams (highest tier within each Member) will remain consistent with the 2025 – 2026 pilot season, with no additional expansion at this time.
- Playing up is governed by the OHF “Playing Up for Players 8 and Under” Policy. All eligibility, affiliation, and approval processes remain in effect.
- For the 2026–2027 season, within NOHA, the Nipissing District Hockey League will continue an additional pilot whereby U7 and U8 participants remain on modified ice for the full season, while U9 teams transition in alignment with the established October 1st timeline. This approach provides an extended half-ice development experience at the U8 level
All Other U9 Categories
• All Other U9 Categories will continue in half-ice programming in accordance with existing
pathway with an earlier full-ice transition date of December 26, 2026.
-For a fully defined seasonal calendar for the All Other U9 Categories, please refer to
Appendix B: U9 Seasonal Calendar
This staggered, skill-based transition enables the OHF and its Members to continue assessing the developmental impacts of adjusted timelines for players who may be ready earlier, without compromising the foundational structure designed to support long-term athlete development. The framework outlined in Appendix A: U9 Seasonal Calendar reflects a unified, collaborative approach across Ontario, ensuring transparency, consistency, and alignment with Hockey Canada’s development philosophy.