2026 Spring Junior High League
Junior High School Hockey Development Division
Development Philosophy
Our league goes beyond simply providing games—it’s a true developmental pathway for Junior High players preparing to advance to JV and Varsity high school hockey.
With an emphasis on foundational skills, team systems, and game awareness, players develop in a structured, supportive environment designed to build confidence and hockey IQ. Off the ice, athletes form connections with future school teammates, creating camaraderie and a strong sense of community.
Whether your player is new to hockey or preparing for upcoming high school tryouts, this division provides the tools, experience, and guidance needed to take the next step.
Draft Skate: TBD
Eligibility & Player Placement
Open to Junior High–age players in grades 6–8
Beginner 9th-grade players may be considered with league approval
Open to Recreational and Travel players
Current high school players are not eligible
District-Based Teams
All teams are district-bound, meaning players are assigned based on their home address and must play within their designated district program. League will assign players to appropriate districts.
Current Districts & Coaches
Orange County 1-gabe@icerealm.com
Orange County 2 (Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo) Warren Ellis Email
Los Angeles
Inland Empire 1- David Vychodil, Adam Ballard
Inland Empire 2 (Riverside)
San Diego -Head Coach Christian Gerrits Email
League coordinator jake@icerealm.com
Example: Orange County players will compete within the OC district, while LA and Inland Empire players will join their respective district clubs. League approves all coaching staff.
League Format & Rules
12 games
Teams may schedule practices independently
All players must have a current 2025–26 USA Hockey membership
USA Hockey rules (tag-up offsides)
No overtime during regular-season games
NHL-style music during games
Game Format
Three stop-time periods
1 hour, 15-minute ice slot
3-minute warm-up
No timeouts
Music played NHL style
Player & Team Requirements
All players must be registered and league-approved
Coaches must verify and sign the scoresheet before each game
League reserves the right to review and restrict players whose skill level (A, AA, or higher) exceeds the intended level of play to maintain competitive balance
Rinks, Events & League Notes
Games will be played primarily at Ice Realm Westminster, with additional local partner arenas used as available
All-Star Game: Date and format to be announced
Championship Game: Top two teams advance to compete for the league title
Jr. High Hockey is co-ed and open to players at the recreational and club levels
Prior playing experience is recommended
The Spring season is expected to feature a minimum of four geographically assigned teams