NOHA U9 Pilot Program Information for 2025-26 Season

Important Message to NOHA Families
The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA), in collaboration with the Ontario Hockey
Federation (OHF) and Hockey Canada, is participating in an exciting pilot program for the
2025-2026 season that will enhance development opportunities for our U9 players.
What is the U9 Pilot Program?
The U9 Pilot Program is a Hockey Canada-approved initiative designed to provide earlier
implementation of full-ice hockey for select U9 teams, combined with an intensive 60-day
development phase focused on fundamental skill building. This pilot addresses the growing
demand for structured, sanctioned full-ice programming while maintaining Hockey Canada’s
commitment to age-appropriate development.
This is a one-year pilot program that will be carefully evaluated to determine its effectiveness
and potential for future expansion.
Two Pilot Programs in NOHA
Main NOHA Pilot Program
• Who: U9 Tier 1 teams
• How Many Teams: Approximately 15 teams across NOHA
• Timeline:
o Season begins with 60-day development phase (September 2 – November 1,
2025)
o Transition to full-ice hockey on November 1, 2025
o All other U9 Teams continue half-ice until January 10, 2026
Nipissing District Hockey League (NDHL) Special Pilot
• Who: All U9 teams (both Tier 1 and Tier 2)
• How Many Teams: Approximately 30 teams
• Timeline:
o U7 and U8 players remain on modified ice for the entire season as intended in
the Hockey Canada Player Pathways
o All U9 teams transition to full-ice on November 1, 2025
o This pilot extends the half-ice experience for U8 players for a complete season
rather than transitioning mid-year, ensuring full adherence to Hockey Canada’s
developmental framework

FAQ for Parents and Associations