Aspen Junior Hockey (AJH) offers a variety of programs designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring that every young athlete has the opportunity to develop their hockey skills and passion for the sport. From introductory programs for the youngest players to competitive leagues for older kids, AJH provides a structured and supportive environment for long-term athletic development.
Aspen Leafs House Hockey
AJH provides athletes interested in participating in multiple winter sports an opportunity to continue to develop hockey skills without the "team" commitment with the Aspen Leafs House Hockey program.
For players ages 9-12, participants are differentiated into two groups (based on ability) for two weekly on-ice practices. Game opportunities are limited to in-house competition and pending other regions' programs. In the past two years, AJH has led the creation and operation of the In-House Hockey Program, which brings together different House programs throughout mountain communities for a half-day of friendly competition.
The objectives of IHHP events are celebrating hockey, making new friends, and having fun. There is no commitment to attending IHHP jamborees, as all participants are mixed and divided equally based on age and ability. We will sort out our Jamboree weekends throughout the season, as our athletes have multiple options.
Important Dates:
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- AJH In-House Start date tbd.
- Thanksgiving week is off 24- 28th & December 22nd to January 2nd for all teams.
- January 19th and February 16th, no ice for all teams.
- Your first session will be with your athlete's age-specific group.
6U Mites Program
Aspen Junior Hockey offers a comprehensive 6U Mites (2019 & younger) program from October through the end of February. Practices are weekly, led by AJH Executive Director Harlan Pratt (and other qualified coaches). The 6U Mite program provides boys' and girls' age-appropriate training, emphasizing physical literacy.
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The program aims to successfully teach on-ice balance, coordination, and the development of a passion for hockey in all children. 6U Mites practice twice per week with no formal competition.
8U Mites Program
For seven and eight-year-old players (2017-2018), AJH offers a comprehensive 8U Mites program running unofficially from mid-September and officially from October through the end of February. Practices are twice per week, led by AJH Executive Director Harlan Pratt (and other qualified coaches). The objective of the 8U Mite program is to develop on-ice balance, coordination, agility, and speed.
Lessons are varied and exciting; the overriding goal is that all participants leave the ice with a smile, emphasizing the foundation of skating, speed, power, and endurance. AJH plans to use activity-based, small-area, and cross-ice games. Introducing players to controlled competition during several Jamboree-style games run throughout the season (minimal travel for these events).
Mountain Select AA Hockey
Mountain Select, an AA hockey program offered in the mountains for both boys and girls, is designed to develop AA hockey locally and provide an opportunity for players to access a higher level of competition. The WCHL/CGHL member associations work together to create and continue this opportunity. Each local association director helps with the selection process for our teams and assists in selecting professional coaches.
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Mountain Select is excited to offer options similar to what you will find in the front range, with the bonus of keeping your family closer to home. The Mountain Select program is in addition to your local club’s hockey program; your player must also play for their Western Colorado Hockey League home association. Available for CO-ED ages 9 - 14, Aspen Leafs competitive teams play games in the Western Colorado Hockey League (WCHL). The league is structured and organized in a responsible geographic footprint west of the Continental Divide.
Teams typically compete against other CAHA programs east of the Continental Divide (and out-of-state teams) during in-state tournaments and the CAHA state playoffs.
Competitive Teams and Long-Term Development
AJH is committed to maintaining and promoting a structured long-term athletic development model. Age-appropriate training and competition are the foundation of AJH programming, and all teams are organized based on the age divisions established by USA Hockey. When there are multiple teams in your age division, players will be placed at the most appropriate competitive level to maximize their development (both physical and emotional). The Executive Director is responsible for all final team placements.
To ensure players maximize the benefits of playing competitive hockey, the expectations of committing to all team functions, including practices, league games, and playoffs.
Aspen Ice Garden
The iconic Aspen Ice Garden has been a part of Aspen’s history for the past 50 years. Renovated in 2013, the Ice Garden is conveniently located in the downtown core of Aspen. It is host to both local figure skating clubs, Aspen Junior Hockey, adult recreational hockey leagues, adult women’s hockey, and the Aspen Curling Club.
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Stop by and play some drop-in hockey. The Ice Garden is also home to the Rare Aspen and Art Aspen - special events held every summer. Roller Skating seasonally available. Call for more information.
Rental / Reservation Information: 970-319-6039
The Aspen Ice Garden isn’t just for hockey and skating events. This facility can be reserved for dry floor events on its 82 foot x 184 foot event floor. The Ice Garden has bleacher seating for 150 people.
Conveniently located just outside the downtown core in Aspen, the Ice Garden has become a favorite destination for visitors anticipating the special events taking place at the recently renovated 50-year-old ice rink. The Ice Garden is available for rent for a limited time during the summer. Winter rental is also available.
