U9s at QEMHW

Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week (QEMHW) U9 Pond Hockey Extravaganza

Dates: Saturday, January 11 & Sunday, January 12
Location: Cattail Crossing Pond Hockey Rinks (24427 Township Rd 542, Edmonton, AB T8T 1L4)
Schedule: Click here - please check the schedule, in case any times have been revised.

This weekend, the QEMHW U9 Pond Hockey Extravaganza will be hosted at the Cattail Crossing. Our U9 players will be skating on 20 mini rinks, navigating scenic ice pathways between games, and embracing the nostalgia of traditional pond hockey rules. Families can enjoy hot chocolate, pizza, and other treats while warming up by the fire pit or trying their hand at snow mini-golf.

Each U9 team will:

• Play one (1) indoor game under standard EFHL U9 rules.

• Play one (1) outdoor pond hockey game at Cattail Crossing Golf and Winter Club (Rink Codes: CT1-CT7). This game will follow traditional pond hockey rules, using pond hockey nets. No goalies are needed.

• If the puck goes out of bounds, the coach will toss a new puck on the ice to allow game play to continue, then retrieve the puck.

• At least one (1) coach per team must have a whistle for timekeeping and basic game management.

• No Referees: At least one (1) coach per team must be on the ice with skates and a helmet to supervise the game.

• Like regular season games, it will be a running clock and continuous play with a 'time keeper' blowing a whistle every 2 minutes to change players.

• When a goal is scored, the scoring team must retreat to their end of the ice and allow the opposing team to cross centre ice before play begins. 

• Regulation-sized (black) pucks will be used for this event to help limit the number of pucks flying out of bounds (compared to the lighter blue pucks). Teams should bring either their blue pucks, or black pucks if they have them available, for warm-ups. 

• Waivers: All players, coaches, and spectators must complete THIS waiver prior to the event. As there is no glass/boards, pucks may go flying. Please be alert and be in that area at your own risk.

• Pathways & Skating: Players and families can skate on the beautiful pathways surrounding the rinks. Families are encouraged to bring their own skates if they prefer to skate instead of walking on the ice pathway. Cattail Crossing is recommending that ice cleats are used for walking on icy surfaces when not in skates.

• Amenities: Fire pits and snow mini-golf are available for everyone’s enjoyment.

• Terrain: The area around the venue, including parking, may be snowy and/or icy. Be prepared for winter conditions and bring sleds for young children if needed.

• Seating: Seating is limited. Families are encouraged to bring camping/lawn chairs or enjoy the warmth of the clubhouse/restaurant. Players will have hay bail benches to sit on during their game.

• Pins & Coupons: Each U9 player will receive commemorative QEMHW pins and McDonald’s coupons from their association. We recommend saving these to hand out at this event to capture the moment with a photo-op.

• Parking: Limited parking is available at Cattail Crossing, with overflow parking nearby. A drop-off zone at the Main Clubhouse is available for players their parent chaperone, and those with mobility issues. After players are dropped off, you will have to proceed to the designated parking area(s); a map will be sent prior to the event. Allow extra time for parking. Carpooling is suggested. 

• Dressing: Players must arrive dressed in their gear as there are no designated dressing rooms. Skates can be put on in the central “Hockey Village” outdoors area near the rinks.

• Coach Check-In: A coach or manager should check in at the table in the main banquet room upon arrival.

• No Referees: At least one (1) coach per team must be on the ice with skates and a helmet to supervise the game.

• Refreshments: Hot chocolate, pizza, and other snacks will be available at beverage carts outside and in the banquet area. For those wishing to dine indoors, reservations can be booked HERE for their Out of Bounds Restaurant.

Volunteers:

• Just like at the Timbits Jamborees, volunteers from your association are required to help make this event a success. Each association is required to send three (3) volunteers this weekend to assist at the event.

• A volunteer sign up sheet and schedule will be sent to all associations soon. 

This event is all about celebrating the joy of hockey in its purest form. Dress warmly, bring your team spirit, and prepare for a weekend of unforgettable memories at this magical winter venue.

For questions, please contact Hockey Edmonton at office@hockeyedmonton.ca.