2026-27 SEASON Information:
- AGE: Birthdates between 6/1/2017 - 5/31/2020 are eligible (generally 1st grade through 3rd grade).
- REGISTRATION: Registration is OPEN. Register through your association, THEN come back and complete the short registration process at this SpartaCats (no fee necessary).
- EQUIPMENT: There are no color requirements for 8U equipment. All skaters will receive a reversible SpartaCats Jersey and socks - similar to that in the picture on this page. 10U does have equipment color requirements. Note breezer covers are being provided at 10U and above so in practice, color requirements at 10U will be limited to gloves and helmets.
- SEASON: Practices will start in October and wraps up in mid-March.
- LOCATIONS: Ice times are primarily at IGH VMCC Arena, but some practices will be at Eagan Civic Arena and Woog Ice Arena.
- COACHES: Parent volunteer coaches. The more the merrier. Two lead on ice coaches will be determined and named as the season gets closer.
- PRACTICES: Three (3) practices per week. (1 practice could be scrimmage). Practices will focus on skating, competition, puck handling skills. Skaters will be grouped with like-skaters and abilities. Practices are typically Wednesday night and Saturday/Sunday during the day. Additional outdoor ice will be added as weather permits. Wednesday practice may occasionally be held outside depending on ice availability.
- GAMES: In house scrimmages and out-of-association games will be scheduled. Focus is always on development and at least a 3-1 Practice-Game ration will be adhered to.
- JAMBOREES: Two jamborees are planned.
SPARTACATS FAQs
Can 1st Graders play 8U?
Yes. If in 1st grade and born prior to May 31, 2020, and she has played at least one year of organized hockey, she is eligible to play 8U and we hope you strongly consider it. Last year, six (6) 1st Graders played 8U. We hope that number increases and it is currently on pace to double! The rule in the SpartaCats Agreement regarding first graders and 8 may be found in the SpartaCats Coop Agreement linked below.
Can Kindergartners play 8U?
No. The SpartaCats Agreement does not allow for kindergartners to play 8U.
