Concussion Safety: Starting in 2017-18 season, each coach shall complete concussion training on an annual basis and provide an acknowledgement form with proof of training to the association prior to participating in any team activities. The acknowledgement form and a list of concussion training options can be found here.

A head coach or coach in charge of any team activity who has knowledge of a player sustaining a concussion or exhibiting concussion type symptoms shall complete a Minnesota Hockey Concussion Reporting and Return to Play form relating to the injury.  The form must be delivered to the team manager within 48 hours of receipt of information that a player sustained a concussion or exhibited concussion type symptoms. The team manager shall provide a copy of the report to the player’s parent or legal guardian. Until the completed Return to Play portion of the form is received by the team manager or coach, the coach and team manager shall ensure that the player does not participate in any team physical activities. The Minnesota Hockey Concussion Reporting and Return to Play form can be accessed here.

Participation Rule Exception: Minnesota Hockey has adopted an exception to its participation rule to better align its rules with the transfer rules of the Minnesota State High School League. Players enrolling in 9th Grade for the first time are now immediately eligible to compete at any division in their Association of School Attendance. For the complete participation rule, visit IV. Participation section of Youth Rules and Regulations in the Minnesota Hockey Handbook

Mite/8U Rest Rules: For Mites/8U, the minimum amount of rest between team events has been reduced to 1.25 hours for on-ice activities of 60 minutes or less.  For half/cross-ice activities of 45 minutes or less, the minimum rest-time between activities can be reduced to 45 minutes and up to four on-ice team activities can occur in a day. These new rules are designed to facilitate and encourage Mite cross/half ice jamborees.

Girls 15U Age Level: Minnesota Hockey has hosted a Girls 15U Pilot Program the past two seasons, and based on the data and feedback collected, the Board of Directors officially adopted the Girls 15 & Under (15U) age level in place of Girls 14 & Under (14U). Girls 14U playing rules will apply