Player Pathway

The House program is designed for players who want to develop their skills and enjoy the game in a fun, team-focused environment. It is the largest program at most minor hockey associations and provides a strong foundation for players at all levels.

Note: BFIHA supports players in House hockey all the way through U21, ensuring they continue to build their skills while having a great time on the ice.

At the U7 and U9 levels, the focus is on skill development, fun, and building a love for the game. Players participate in a structured program that follows Hockey Canada’s Long-Term Player Development Model, ensuring they learn fundamental hockey skills in an age-appropriate environment.

Note: BFIHA’s U7 and U9 programs emphasize small-area games, station-based drills, and progressive skill development. These early years provide the foundation for players as they prepare to transition into the tiered U11 program and, later, the House or Rep ‘A’ pathways at U13 and beyond.

At the U11 level, BC Hockey uses a tiered structure to group players based on skill and development level. While there is no formal Rep ‘A’ program at this stage, tiering helps ensure balanced competition and provides an environment where players can continue to grow at the right pace.

Note: For BFIHA, this means that U11 players are placed on teams suited to their current abilities, allowing them to develop their skills while preparing for the structured House or Rep ‘A’ pathways available at U13 and beyond. This approach ensures that all players receive appropriate coaching, game experience, and development opportunities to help them progress in their hockey journey.

For players looking for a more competitive experience, minor hockey associations offer Rep ‘A’ teams at U13 and U15. In addition to playing at a higher level, players in the Rep ‘A’ program can also access external development opportunities, including:

These optional programs require an additional cost and comittment but provide great opportunities for players looking to advance in competitive hockey. They run throughout the season and are structured to allow players to remain with their minor hockey team while participating.

It’s important to note that players can switch pathways at the start of each season. For example, a player in the U13 House program one year can choose to try out for the Rep ‘A’ team the next season, and vice versa.

At the U18 level, players can continue in either the House or Rep ‘A’ pathway within their minor hockey association. Additionally, players seeking a higher level of competition may try out for:

Players must commit to either their minor hockey Rep ‘A’ team or the BC Hockey Female AAA team, as participation in both is not permitted. Both options allow players to take part in the optional Team BC U18 program, which runs throughout the hockey season.

After completing the U18 program, players have several full-time hockey options:

USports, USA College Hockey, and the South Coast Female Hockey League offer competitive opportunities and may serve as pathways to the Canadian National Team program based on performance.