This NEWLY launched Powhatan Ice Den 6U 'Mini-Mites' Program is specifically designed to help younger hockey players build a solid foundation in hockey by allowing an additional step in their progression after Learn-to-Play and before advancing to the Richmond Generals 8U house teams. 

Our season will follow the Ice Den's schedule and begin October and run through early March. This program will be split into 2 "seasons" to allow for players to join in January after completing HockeyU offered in the fall. 

Practices follow USA Hockey's American Development Model (ADM) and incorporate small groups in a station based format. Players will focus on skating (edge work), hockey fundamentals and participate in weekend 4v4 games against each other.

Overall this program is a development based program with a focus on skating and skill but with an emphasis in exposing the players to the game before moving to a higher level 8U program. By developing these skills we hope increase the players love for the game while building a stronger foundation. 

Coach James Haulsee

We are happy to welcome Coach James to the Richmond area as our first head coach of the 6U Program. He specializes in Learn-to-play and focusing on developmental hockey for younger players. As a goalie himself, he encourages all players to put on the goalie pads and try the position. His focus is on learning the game by having fun and building a strong team bond.

Coach Michelle Walton

Michelle grew up playing travel hockey in Richmond and went on to play AAA Womens with the Little Caps. She is also the Atlantic Regional Director of the USA Floorball Assoc. With a passion for younger hockey players, Michelle will bring exceptional skill and wisdom to the Polar Mites program.

Each player must register with USA Hockey before registering for the Polar Mites. Your USA Hockey number will be required during the registration process.

Parents will not be allowed to assist on ice with practice unless they have completed the volunteer requirements. Each on-ice volunteer will be required to complete SafeSport training and sign a liability waiver. These documents must be approved by rink management before getting on the ice. Volunteers are also required to wear appropriate gear while on the ice. Helmets are required!

We will also be asking that parents volunteer to be locker room monitors throughout the season. More info on this will be provided after registration.

Email documentation to 3v3@powhataniceden.com

Fun Focused

• Our primary responsibility as a program is to ensure a fun and safe environment for kids beginning hockey. 
• Developing skills as players and athletes is important but the primary focus will be on having fun and ensuring players want to continue and return to the sport.

Sportsmanship

• In order to grow the game and develop players to the best of our ability, fostering good sportsmanship is key to their long term success. 
• The program will encourage and reward players for good sportsmanship on and off the ice. Gentle corrections to players and parents will be addressed if instances of poor sportsmanship arise.

Physical Literacy

• Physical Literacy will be a foundational element and is defined as a process that connects confidence, competence, motivation, and active participation, through both a technical and a psychological aspect.
• This will all be led with a focus on the USA Hockey ADM Model.