Youth Hockey Programs
Player Development Programs
Where to start... The New Mexico Ice Hockey Foundation (NMICE) partners with The Outpost Ice Arenas to offer beginner skating and hockey programs (that aren't only for beginners).
Start off with Learn to Skate USA's curriculum for fundamental basic skills of skating. This program is recommended for all levels of skating, however basic skating skills are required prior to registering for NMICE hockey programs. Classes offered include: Snowplow Sam 1-6 (Ages 5-6 only), Basic 1-6, Pre-Free Skate, Free Skate 1-6, Adult Beginners-Advanced, and Hockey 1-4 (HECC approved helmet required).
Learn to Play Hockey is for new / beginner players with multiple sessions offered throughout the year. Generally, all players under 7 years of age should register for Learn to Play Hockey. Players may transition into NMICE Youth Hockey development programs during the season, as they are ready.
What next... NMICE creates teams in USA Hockey age divisions each season based on registration numbers for each program. Age divisions may be combined to make a roster when not enough players of a given birth year are registered.
The most underrated and underutilized skill-development opportunity offered at the Outpost!
Our coaching staff strongly encourages all youth hockey players to take advantage of the year-round Stick & Puck sessions. Whether you're working on stickhandling, shooting, edge work, or simply getting extra ice time and conditioning, consistent individual practice can make a huge impact on your development.
The players who improve the most are often the ones who spend extra time on the ice outside of team practices. Put in the work, have fun, and watch your confidence and skills grow throughout the season!
The goal of the NMICE House Biscuit League is to build a foundation from which players develop hockey skills and learn the rules of the Game through good sportsmanship and fair play in a fun setting. It is designed to draw and keep players in the game by creating a fun, safe environment where participants can be active in hockey on a flexible commitment with varied playing formats and age-appropriate rules. The Biscuit League is included for all players in REC Hockey. Two sessions are offered during the youth hockey season - the Biscuit League takes a break during the month of December. Lowest cost, least time commitment (2 hours/week), no travel. Open registration (players of all hockey skill level must be able to skate with a stick). 4 Divisions - 6U (3v3 in tunnel), 8U (cross-ice), 10U-12U, 14U-18U. All practices and games are at The Outpost Ice Arenas. Each session wraps up with the Gravy Cup Championships.
The Recreation Hockey Program is more of a commitment in terms of time and cost than the House Biscuit League and further supports the development of skating and hockey skills and builds strength and endurance. REC teams are formed according to USA Hockey age divisions with advanced beginner to intermediate skill players who may not be ready for or interested in the time and expense of Travel Hockey. All REC hockey players attend tryouts / player evaluations to be placed on a balanced roster. NMICE REC teams play other New Mexico REC teams in neighboring communities including Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Los Alamos, and Taos. Moderate cost (fees INCLUDE Biscuit League), 3 to 4 hours/week. Player Evaluations - June 24th 2026. Season is OCT THRU FEB. USA Hockey Age Divisions - 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U or High School (JV / Varsity).
Travel Hockey requires players committed to more practice hours and a higher level of competition AND parents/guardians committed to higher fees and travel expenses. These teams frequently travel outside of New Mexico 1-2 times per month during the season. Players are selected to Travel Hockey rosters through a tryout evaluation process. Tryout required, higher cost, 5 to 6+ hours/week, frequent travel out of state. Tryouts - June 22nd and 23rd. Season is SEP THRU MAR. USA Hockey Age Divisions - 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U. Average of 4 weekly practices for AA/A and 3 weekly practices for B - all practices are at The Outpost Ice Arenas.
