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Student Coaches

Student Coach Regulations

A player between the ages of 13 and 17 who is currently properly registered with USA Hockey may serve as a student coach under the following conditions:

  • Must attend a training session conducted by the local hockey association. The training session can be created by the association, or the association can use the premade training that is on this page.
  • Will need to complete Safesport if turning 18 during the year in which they are coaching.
  • Must always be under the supervision of a carded, screened adult coach during all practices, clinics, try-outs, and in the locker room.
  • May help out at practices, clinics, try-outs only. (May not participate as a player in scrimmages or games when acting as a STUDENT COACH).
  • May not act as the head coach or an assistant coach during practices or games.
  • May be on the bench during games with an adult. The STUDENT COACH will count as one of the maximum of four Team Officials allowed on the bench.
  • Must wear a helmet with full face shield, gloves, and skates while on the ice. Must wear helmet during games while on the bench.
  • May only work with players at least one full playing age level down (e.g., a 14U age player may act as a STUDENT COACH at the 12U, 10U or 8U level).
  • The organization that is using the STUDENT COACH must provide a form indicating on what team he/she is participating as a student coach, and, if applicable, what team he/she is properly registered/rostered as a player. A model form can be found by clicking on the link above This form stays with the association.
  • Upon reaching the age of 18, the STUDENT COACH must comply with the USA Hockey Screening Program and meet the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program requirements which will qualify him/her to act as an assistant or head coach.

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