Registration now open.
The Hamilton Steel U5–U7 Introduction to Skating & Hockey Program (formerly HMHIP) is the foundation for young players beginning their hockey journey in Hamilton.
Previously known as the Hamilton Minor Hockey Initiation Program (HMHIP), this trusted grassroots development pathway continues under Hamilton Steel — delivering strong skating fundamentals, skill development, and a positive first hockey experience for new families.
Whether your child is stepping on the ice for the first time or building on early skating skills, U5–U7 is designed to create confident, capable young players in a fun and structured environment.
Designed for New Hockey Families
If your child has never played hockey before, this program is built for you.
Our U5–U7 programming focuses on:
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Skating fundamentals (balance, stride, edges, stopping)
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Basic puck control, passing, and shooting
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Small-area and half-ice hockey games
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Confidence-building through repetition and positive coaching
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A clear development pathway from learn-to-skate into organized minor hockey
We also understand many parents are new to hockey. That’s why the program is structured, supportive, and easy to follow from registration through the season.
U5 – Introduction to Skating (2022 Birth Year)
The U5 program is the true entry point for first-time skaters. Players focus on balance, coordination, and building comfort on the ice.
Learn more about U5 here:
👉 https://hamiltonsteelhockeyclub.com/Pages/3301/U5_(2022)/
U6 – Skill Development & Game Introduction (2021 Birth Year)
The U6 program builds on skating fundamentals and introduces structured skill work with a “develop + apply” weekend format:
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Saturday: power skating, passing, shooting, hockey fundamentals
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Sunday: half-ice hockey games to apply skills in action
Learn more about U6 here:
👉 https://hamiltonsteelhockeyclub.com/Pages/3302/U6_(2021)/
U7 – Structured Half-Ice Hockey (2020 Birth Year)
The U7 program increases repetition, confidence, and structured half-ice game play to prepare players for the next stage of development.
Learn more about U7 here:
👉 https://hamiltonsteelhockeyclub.com/Pages/3324/U7_(2020)_/
Registration for U5, U6 & U7
Registration for U5, U6, and U7 is completed through the same online portal.
👉 Register here for U5–U7:
https://page.spordle.com/hamilton-minor-hockey-initiation-program/participant/1f11590c-15cb-6156-8406-061589d6f331
Hamilton Steel Jr. Future Stars (Optional Development)
Families looking for additional skill development can also register for Hamilton Steel Jr. Future Stars (U5–U7).
Learn more here:
👉 https://hamiltonsteelhockeyclub.com/Pages/3326/Future_Stars/
Register here:
👉 https://page.spordle.com/hamilton-minor-hockey-initiation-program/participant/1f115c1a-71df-6922-a96d-0233802c013f
Bench Staff / On-Ice Helpers (U5–U7)
Parents and volunteers can support the program as Bench Staff / On-Ice Helpers (OIH’s).
Learn more about Bench Staff requirements here:
👉 https://hamiltonsteelhockeyclub.com/Pages/3338/U5_U7_Bench_Staff/
Register as an On-Ice Helper here:
👉 https://page.spordle.com/hamilton-minor-hockey-initiation-program/participant/1f115abf-db92-6952-af11-06b18f5f402f
A Proven Grassroots Hockey Foundation in Hamilton
Formerly HMHIP, this program has introduced hundreds of young players to the game of hockey in Hamilton. Now operating under the Hamilton Steel development pathway, the focus remains the same:
✔ Strong skating fundamentals
✔ Positive first hockey experience
✔ Age-appropriate skill progression
✔ Clear pathway from U5 through U7 and beyond
If you’re searching for a trusted learn-to-skate and beginner hockey program in Hamilton, the Hamilton Steel U5–U7 Introduction to Skating & Hockey Program (formerly HMHIP) is where the journey begins.