Effective the 2013/14 season, the age of introducing Body Checking moved from U13 to U15 at the Representative Level, placing continued emphasis on body contact for the U13 age group. This change is the result of recognizing changes in the game of hockey. The priorities of the OMHA remain dedicated to player safety, providing young athletes with the opportunity to best develop and acquire skills, and keeping as many players playing the game as possible.
A common misconception is that the skill of checking begins at a certain age or age category of play. In fact, checking is a 4-Step Progression that begins the first time a young player steps on the ice. Each step builds upon the previous step and brings the hockey player that much closer to being able to give and receive body checks competently and confidently.
Checking is a critical skill in the game of hockey that when performed properly can create quality scoring opportunities or help a team regain control of the puck. Just like skating, puck control, passing and shooting there are key progressions to the skill of checking when taught effectively, can greatly enhance a player's enjoyment of the great game of hockey.
Education will remain a priority focusing on the 4-Step Checking Progression. The progression emphasizes the practice of Positioning & Angling and Stick Checks, followed by Contact Confidence and Body Contact, which is taught at the later stages of athlete development.
For more information, please visit the OMHA Checking Skills Info Page.