Spring hockey allows for continued development beyond the season's end for both players continuing in an age group and players who are transitioning to a higher age group. One of the goals of Spring hockey is to expose players moving to a new age category to a higher level of competition. In support of this goal, teams will be formed based on the following season's birth year age group alignment (i.e. current 2nd year players in any age group will move up to the next age group and final-year 8U players will be eligible to participate at the 10U age group). Based on committed registration numbers, some players may be asked to remain in their current age group to maximize ice touches and the number of children participating.

Coming soon, here is a preview of what last year's program and fees were

Are there tryouts?

Saber Cats does not have tryouts. It is designed as additional hockey development opportunities for everyone we can support. It is for kids who want a little bit more hockey development after Icers season ends but prior to the start of summer.

How are there no tryouts, yet you still develop kids at all skill levels?

In order to accept and develop as many players as possible, we use a skill-clinic approach where players are grouped by skill (like a Wild-style adaptation of NLDP). This gets players into small cohorts (of approximately six skaters) with similar age-skill combinations. We then target 4-6 skill stations for an 80-minute practice and end most practices with age-split cross-ice scrimmages. Players get to train with friends who are between teams/age groups while still being in a highly competitive environment.

Are there tournaments included?

No. Spring is about maximizing development while minimizing costs. For those that want to go to tournaments, we will work with TMs, Coaches and those interested to try and find skill-appropriate events. In past years, we have had fairly even representation across skill buckets at most age groups. As such, we can potentially support higher-end tournaments and possibly some lower-level tournaments as well (depending on interest and age/skill alignment). These events are an extra expense and are not included in the registration fee.

How far away are tournaments?

Tournament distance depends on tournament availability and player preference, but most tournaments are within driving distance of State College. Past Saber Cats teams have participated in events in Hershey, PA and in neighboring states such as Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey. Events are selected by Coaches and Team Managers after working with parents to identify skill-appropriate events.