We are excited to kick off the 2019-20 season and look forward to a really positive year. We understand that there have been some questions related to practice and game formats as we look ahead for the 8U program. We wanted to reach out to communicate the goals of the program and contextualize anything that may look different compared to last season.

• Pucks: all 8U programming at XIC will utilize blue pucks. The intention behind using blue pucks is to teach puck skills to 8U players with age-appropriate resistance. While older players may be able to manage black pucks, using a lighter puck will enhance stick skills and encourage fundamentals at a younger age.

• Nets: all 8U programming at XIC will utilize intermediate nets. The intention behind using intermediate nets is to place players and goalies in age-appropriate scenarios. The intermediate nets are appropriately sized for 8U players and allow for developing goaltenders to effectively cover the net while working on fundamental concepts. For players, these smaller nets will encourage net identification and encourage players to find a specific target as opposed to shooting for the area of the net a goalie cannot reach.

We hope that this overview helps to clarify our goals as a program and communicates the reason behind some of the changes you will see this season in the 8U program. Please feel free to reach out should you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the points above.

See you on the ice!

-XIC Hockey