JR. Development Program

*NEW! Coming July 2026*

The JR. Development Program is a new summer-only offering designed specifically for 7th and 8th grade players, modeled after our highly successful high school Development Program. Heading into its 10th year overall, the Development Program has proven to be remarkably effective in enhancing players’ skills across all levels while fostering competition in a challenging, fun, and engaging environment. The JR. Development Program brings that same philosophy to younger athletes, focusing on skill development, ample puck touches, and continuous decision-making through game-like scenarios. This program is built to elevate each player’s confidence, hockey IQ, and overall performance while preparing them for the next stage of their development.

Team Ice times will change each week depending on game schedule and practice design.  Each player’s exact schedule will be set after the evaluation session when teams are designated. 



Following the evaluation skate, players will be placed onto small, balanced teams that will compete throughout the program for the I-270 Cup. Each week, teams will battle in small-area games, earning points toward their placement in the I-270 Cup Tournament, which will take place during the final week of the program.

Each small-area game will be 8-10 minutes in length with wins and losses recorded.

Weekly Format

Day 1 Session:

Each session will begin with 30 minutes of skill and technique development, focusing on areas such as passing, shooting, skating, checking, decision-making, and position-specific details. The session will conclude with 35 mins of small-area games, allowing players to immediately apply what they’ve learned in a competitive environment.

Day 2 Session:

The 2nd session each week will consist entirely of small-area games.

How are the teams formed?

The coaches use the evaluation skate to get an understanding of every player's ability. The coaches then work together to form teams as even as possible. The teams will remain together for the entire four week program.

Will my player's session start time be the same every week?

No, the sessions change each week depending on your team's small area game schedule.

Is there checking in the small area games?

No, the games will have competitive contact where players must attempt to play the puck at all times. Checking a player with no attempt to play the puck will not be allowed. However, checking will be part of the skill development sessions on Day 1 in a controlled environment.

Why are standings kept for the my small area games?

Standings are kept through the entire 4 week program to determine the seedings for the bracket style tournament on the final day. One team will be declared the I-270 Cup Summer Champion.

Is this program good for goalies?

Yes, this program is great for goalies. During the skill session of day 1 of each week they will participate in different drills in the stations seeing many shots. There will also be a station for some specific goalie work with a goalie coach. The small-area games are very valuable as they will have a lot of repetitive action in high scoring situations. They will need to focus and develop the ability to refocus after each goal.

Will specialty coaches be involved?

Yes, the first session each week will have a goalie coach and skating coach from Lee Harris Skating Systems.