Blue header with Blue Jackets Hockey League logo to the left. Large white text to the right reads Blue Jackets Hockey League.

The Blue Jackets Hockey League, presented by Tim Hortons, in association with Pedialyte and Feazel, is a city-wide, local hockey program for boys and girls that follows the American Development Model and long-term athlete development principles to help kids reach their full potential.

Players are placed on teams led by passionate volunteers who are committed to providing a fun and engaging environment. The players and coaches will be supported by certified Blue Jackets Development Coaches on and off the ice.

All volunteer coaches and Development Coaches will be certified by USA Hockey and complete additional Blue Jackets Hockey League requirements. We are passionate for our coaches to be continuous learners like the players.

2025-2026 Season Hockey

The Blue Jackets Hockey League provides age and developmentally-appropriate programming at 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U age classifications. The Blue Jackets Hockey League is dedicated to fostering the growth of hockey, offering age-appropriate programming, and providing a world-class experience.

The Blue Jackets Hockey League is not for brand-new participants. Players must complete CBJ Learn to Play 1, 2, 3 series and/or previous playing experience in the Blue Jackets Hockey League or comparable ice hockey experience.

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

Become a Blue Jackets Hockey League volunteer!

Youth hockey is supported by great volunteers who help within all facets of the game. We have opportunities for Blue Jackets Hockey League volunteer coaches and team managers.

This is a great way to spend more time with your child, build friendships, and help strengthen our community.

Benefits

Benefits

  • Impact the growth and development of young athletes.
  • Gain experience and enhance leadership skills in a collaborative environment.
  • Join a community dedicated to youth sports and development.
  • Opportunities for personal growth and child participation in special programs.
  • Eligibility for exclusive events at Nationwide Arena based on participation.

We want to know more about you, your experiences, and how you want to help. Sign up below if you are interested in volunteering.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Coaches (Team Coaches)

Volunteer Coaches (Team Coaches)

  • Lead team and work with other coaches to provide safe and fun environment.
  • Implement practice plans, manage the players during the game, set up off ice events, and provide a fun and engaging experience.
  • Responsible to help strengthen friendships, camaraderie, and support life skills within their team and family members on and off the ice.
  • Communicate with team and their family members. Set up off-ice events to further enhance team dynamics.
Team Managers

Team Managers

  • Provide timely and effective written and verbal communication to team members and their families regarding schedule updates, league announcements, and other pertinent information.
  • Support coaches with the organization and execution of off-ice events, including team gatherings, community activities, and end-of-season celebrations.
  • Act as a liaison between the families and coaching staff, ensuring that all parties are informed and engaged throughout the season.
  • Assist in the coordination of logistics for games and practices, ensuring that players and families have all necessary information for successful participation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Blue Jackets Hockey League Player and how does it benefit my child?

There are a lot of different aspects of player development and each player is unique in their path through hockey. Our goal in the Blue Jackets Hockey League is to provide an exceptional experience that ultimately allows the players to play, love, and excel in the game of hockey, however they choose to pursue it. More information on Player Development.

Can I choose what rink my family wants to play out of?

Yes, during registration you will have an option to register for which rink works best for your family.

I'm new to hockey or just interested in more information. What resources are available?

USA Hockey has developed a parent handbook.

What does an on-ice session look like?
  • Skating (Focusing on Agility, Balance, and Coordination to build physical literacy)
  • Puck Touches (Lots of reps with the puck)
  • Decision Making
  • Game like drills and activities
  • Challenging to each player with having progressive activities
  • FUN!

More about Practices in the Blue Jackets Hockey League.

What is USA Hockey and the American Development Model?

Founded in 1937, USA Hockey provides the foundation for ice hockey in American and today includes more than one million players, coaches, officials, and volunteers. They are the official representative to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the International Ice Hockey Federation. In this role, USA Hockey organize and train teams for international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships, the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

USA Hockey launched the American Development Model (ADM) in 2009, providing a framework for optimal athlete development. Since then, USA Hockey has continued to build upon the framework, implementing best practices nationwide through a network of volunteers, in order to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience fun in hockey. By giving your child the USA Hockey experience, you’re setting them up for long term success. It’s proven programming, built on research and data from leading hockey nations, sport scientists, coaches, and educators.

GUIDING BELIEFS

White graphic with blue subheaders. First blue header reads Hockey Is For Everyone. Black text underneath reads We are inclusive of all ages, races, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, or other similar characteristic. Second blue header reads Hockey Should Be Fun. Black text underneath reads We create an engaging and developmentally appropriate atmosphere for children to learn and play together. Third blue header reads Every Kid Deserves a Great Coach. Black text underneath reads Our coaches deliver high quality programming utilizing the American Development Model (ADM) and create a safe environment where our players can thrive.