Mite Hockey is for skaters in Pre-K thru 3rd Grade. Our program has 5 levels - Mini Mite, Mite 1, Mite 2, Mite 3 and Mite 4. 

Skaters in our Mini-Mite level need not have any skating experience. If your skater is starting hockey later than 1st grade or you are unsure what level or evaluation to attend, please reach out to us at mites@oronohockey.org. 

Note: Mites who do not live within the Orono School District will likely not be able to play for Orono, due to a new MN Hockey rule. However, there are some exceptions. Please reach out to registration@oronohockey.org if you are unsure of your players eligibility.

MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT

Players must be four years of age by May 30, 2026

This year, due to a one time fundraising credit of up to $225 per player, new to hockey and mini mite players will play for free! All other mites will register and pay a $150 deposit. Depending on what level your child is placed in, the difference will be charged when your player is rostered to their level.

To see the fees per level, visit our registration fees page:

Check out our level guides for more information on each Mite level.

Mini Mite (Pre-K/K)

If your player is new to hockey, there is no need to attend evaluations. Players are placed automatically.

Mite 1, Mite 2 (K–1st grade)

Players attend a non-timed practice for evaluation. Parents can request to opt into timed evaluations for potential higher placement.

Mite 3 / Mite 4 (2nd–3rd grade)

All players participate in timed, drill-based evaluations. No subjective scrimmages are used.

Goalies

Players at the Mite 3 or Mite 4 level wishing to be evaluated as a full time goalie will attend a goalie evaluation. 

Fair, fun, and focused—our goal is to place every skater where they can grow and shine. Please check out our Evaluation Process and Evaluation Drills. 

Interested in Coaching?

Registration for coaches and rostered volunteers is now open. We couldn't introduce our youngest skaters to the game without the support of our incredible volunteer coaches.

If you are interested in being considered for a mite coaching position, please review the coaching requirements and complete all required registration steps before the season begins. A limited number of dibs-eligible coaching positions are available on each team; however, all coaches from OYHA and MWHA—whether dibs-eligible or not—must register with OYHA and complete the same USA Hockey and association requirements prior to taking the ice in October. Coaches who have completed all required registrations, certifications, and trainings by the start of the season will receive priority consideration during the coaching selection process.

Coaching resources and registration information can be found here:

https://www.oronohockey.org/coaching-resources/coach-registration/30349