Age Groups, Training and Selection Policy
Junior hockey runs in two-year age bands, with separate boys’ and girls’ sections from above U8. These age bands train together, but players will generally play matches within their own year group, alongside their peers. Players are placed by coaches into the most appropriate competition level to support development.

U9 / U10
U11 / U12
U13 / U14
U15/16
U17/18

In2Hockey (U12 & Below)
For U12s and younger, fixtures are part of the In2Hockey programme. This is a short-format game (5-, 6- or 7-a-side), focused on development and enjoyment. Teams are grouped by ability rather than leagues:
Red – higher-level / more competitive
Blue – mid-level development
Green – newer players or those focused on learning and fun

Coaches decide the most appropriate group for each team based on:
Development
Experience
Confidence

Grouping is not fixed and is reviewed as players progress.

Older Age Groups (U13+)
From U13 upwards, hockey becomes more team-based. Players still train in two-year age bands, but will mainly play within their own year group. Matches move to 11-a-side hockey.

Team Selection
Team selection is made by the coaching team and is always based on:
Development
Safety
Enjoyment
Creating the best environment for improvement

Once teams are selected, all fixtures and selections are communicated via Pitchero.