
Q: When does hockey season start and end?
A: Our season runs from October into March.
Q: I’m interested, but I don’t want to travel all over the state. Is there a program for me?
A: ABSOLUTELY! Growth of our non-travel programs is one of the top priorities for Decatur Youth Hockey! Beginner and “house” (recreational) programs cover boys and girls aged 4 – 14 and provide the opportunity to play without the cost or committment of travel. Growing the house program while maintaining the strength of the DYHA travel program is a key goal of DYHA.
Q: I heard hockey is super expensive! How much does it cost?
A: DYHA does everything possible to make hockey available to all. Dues for our Beginner program were only $200 last season; this covered twice weekly ice time from October through March.
Q: Everyone tells me that equipment is really expensive too. Is that true?
A: DYHA provides an equipment rental program that allows most players to get suited up for only $50 plus the cost of skates, undergarmets, and neck guard. Entry level or used equipment provides suitable protection and functionality for players getting started and is reasonably priced. Advanced players seeking the lightest stick or most flexible pads may choose to spend more on professional-level equipment, but these upgrades are not required and usually happen of the course of years -- not all at once.
Q: I have heard that practices are at horrible times of the day. Do I really have to wake up at 5:00am to take my kid to practice?
A: No way! We strive to make practice times, particularly for our younger age groups, at reasonable times. Last year our beginners, 6U, and 8U groups practiced on two weeknights, after business hours, back-to-back.
Q: My kid has never skated before. How much experience is required?
A: ZERO experience or skating ability is needed to join Decatur Youth Hockey. Our beginner program teaches the basics of skating; you'd be surprised how quickly even the smallest players learn to skate with help from our coaches!
Q: Do you have to live in Decatur to be a member of Decatur Youth Hockey?
A: Nope. We have members from Decatur and most of the surrounding communities!
Q: I have more questions that aren’t on this FAQ list. Where can I go for answers?
A: Send an email to info@decaturhockey.com. We will try to get back to you promptly!
Q: What is “PRE-REGISTRATION”?
A: Pre-registration is not a commitment at all. It’s just a way for us to know that you might have a player that’s interested in playing hockey next year. We use this to help plan group sizes and to keep you posted with important information and news. Pre-registration is not required prior to actual registration in September.