New to Hockey?

Welcome to North SEERA Hockey

Getting started in hockey can feel overwhelming — gear, registration, rules, schedules, and a whole lot of new terms. Don’t worry. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help walk you through it.

Step-by-Step: How to Register

  1. Create a Spordle Account: Go to Spordle and create an account in the parent’s name.
  2. Add Your Child: Once logged in, click “Link a Member” and search for your child or create a new participant.
  3. Upload Required Documents: Upload your Alberta Health Care Card, birth certificate or passport, and proof of address.
  4. Complete The Shift Forward - Parent/Guardian – Parent: This is required before registration. It takes about an hour and costs $12.
  5. Register for the Season: After the steps above are complete, use the Spordle registration portal and select North SEERA.

Go to Registration Overview

What Program Is Right for My Child?

U7 Discovery

Birth Year: 2022

Typical Age: 4

U7 Junior Timbits

Birth Year: 2021

Typical Age: 5

U7 Senior Timbits

Birth Year: 2020

Typical Age: 6

U9

Birth Years: 2018–2019

Typical Age: 7–8

U11

Birth Years: 2016–2017

Typical Age: 9–10

U13

Birth Years: 2014–2015

Typical Age: 11–12

What Equipment Does My Child Need?

Hockey does require quite a bit of gear, but don’t worry. Equipment can be purchased new or used, and many hockey stores can help size your child properly.

  • Helmet with cage
  • Mouth guard
  • Neck guard
  • Shoulder pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Hockey gloves
  • Hockey pants
  • Jock or Jill shorts
  • Shin guards
  • Hockey socks
  • Skates
  • Stick
  • Water bottle
  • Hockey bag

New Hockey Parent Tip

Label everything. Seriously. Water bottles, gloves, helmets, sticks, bags — all of it. Hockey gear has a magical ability to disappear in dressing rooms.

Kids hockey equipment checklist infographic with labeled gear, including helmet, pads, gloves, skates, and jersey.

Equipment Tips & Skate Fitting

Skate Fitting Basics

  • Skates should feel snug with no major pressure points
  • Allow only about ½ size of growth room
  • Try multiple brands — fit varies a lot
  • Take your time getting properly fitted

Pro tip: Proper skate fit is the single most important factor in early skating development.

Signs of Poor Fit

  • Blisters or discomfort
  • Loose heel or over-tightened laces
  • Difficulty turning or stopping
  • “Wobbly” skating or weak stance

Blade Alignment

  • Factory-mounted blades aren’t always perfectly centered
  • Misalignment affects balance and skating posture
  • Specialty shops can adjust blades and heat-mold boots

General Equipment Tips

  • Gear should fit snug, not loose
  • Stick height: nose (barefoot) or chin (in skates)
  • Label everything
  • Air gear out after every use

What to Expect During the Season

For younger players, the focus is on fun, confidence, learning, and helping kids enjoy coming to the rink.

  • September evaluations or placement skates
  • Team placement before the season begins
  • Usually 1–2 ice times per week, depending on division
  • Age-appropriate game formats for younger players
  • No standings or scorekeeping at U7 and U9
  • End-of-year jamboree, tournament, or team event

Volunteer Commitment

North SEERA relies on volunteers to keep hockey affordable and teams running smoothly. Families may help with things like timekeeping, tournaments, team events, or other association needs.

A $250 undated volunteer cheque per player is collected and is only cashed if the volunteer requirement is not fulfilled.

Still Have Questions?

We know hockey can feel like a lot at first. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out and we’ll help point you in the right direction.