Rocky River Youth Hockey utilizes the American Development Model (ADM) created by USA Hockey. The benefits of the ADM approach include age-appropriate practice plans, more efficient skill development, more player retention and helping kids reach their full potential.

Players under 8 years old can progress through a number of levels depending on when they start playing hockey. Here is a breakdown of the RRYH Mite levels:

LTP 1: Little Stickers

4-5 year olds

• Introduction to basic skating and hockey skills
• Previous skating lessons strongly encouraged
• May advance to Mini ADM or repeat Little Stickers

ltp 2: Mini ADM

5-8 year olds

• Introduction to USA Hockey American Development Model (ADM)
• Previous Little Stickers participation strongly encouraged
• May advance to Blue Travel or repeat Mini ADM

ltp 3: Blue Travel

5-8 year olds

• Continuation of skills and development
• In December, players get divided into teams and play against Cleveland Suburban Hockey League opponents
• Cross-ice games, no score keeping, players rotate as goalie
• Previous Mini ADM participation strongly encouraged
• May advance to Mite White, Mite Red or Squirt depending on age

Mite White

6-8 year olds

• Intermediate skating and hockey skills
• Teams play games against Cleveland Surburban Hockey League opponents
• Half-ice games, score keeping, dressed goalies
• Previous Blue Travel participation strongly encouraged
• May advance to Squirt, Mite Red or repeat Mite White depending on age

Mite Red

6-8 year olds

• Advanced skating and hockey skills
• Teams play games against Cleveland Surburban Hockey League opponents
• Half-ice games, score keeping, dressed goalies
• Previous Blue Travel or Mite White participation strongly encouraged
• May advance to Squirt or repeat Mite Red depending on age