NEW TO HOCKEY?
Welcome to the VFC family—we’re glad you’re here.
Getting into hockey can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. At Valley Forge Colonials, our development model is designed to make the process straightforward: build skills, play hard, and grow the right way.
From Learn to Skate through travel hockey, players move through each stage with consistent coaching and a focus on improvement. Families stay informed, schedules stay organized, and kids have fun while learning the game the right way.
ABOUT VFC
The Valley Forge Colonials (VFC) is a USA Hockey–sanctioned Tier II program based at Oaks Center Ice in Oaks, PA. Alongside our Tier I partner, the Valley Forge Minutemen, we offer a complete path for player development—from beginner programs through advanced competition.
For more than five decades, families have chosen VFC for its coaching, structure, and results. Our players earn real development, real ice time, and real opportunities to advance within USA Hockey.
HOW TO GET STARTED
If your player is new to hockey, the best place to start is with the fundamentals. Strong skating skills are the foundation for everything that follows—and the best way to begin is through one of the beginner programs offered right here at Oaks Center Ice.
Most families begin with Learn to Skate or Flyers Learn to Play, then move into what we call the Three Stages of Hockey Development at Oaks Center Ice:
ROOKIE
chip
vfc
Each stage builds confidence, skill, and understanding of the game—so whether your player is taking their first strides or getting ready for their first team, there’s a clear next step forward.
While not required, Learn to Skate is highly encouraged for new players. It focuses on balance, edge control, and proper skating technique—skills that set the stage for everything in hockey.
STEP 1:
This is where most young players officially begin their hockey journey. The Rookie Program—offered year-round through Oaks Center Ice and seasonally as Flyers Learn to Play—introduces the fundamentals of skating, stickhandling, passing, and shooting in a fun, supportive environment. Players in either program receive a full set of starter equipment and build confidence through small-group instruction and games.
STEP 2:
The Colonials Hockey Instructional Program—better known as CHIP—is the final stage before joining a travel team. Players strengthen core hockey skills like skating, passing, shooting, and positioning while building confidence and game sense. Many CHIP players advance directly into the Valley Forge Colonials (VFC) travel hockey program.
STEP 3:
After completing one or more of the programs above, players are ready to take the next step by trying out for a VFC team. Tryouts take place once per year, usually in the spring, and players are placed on their age-appropriate team.
From there, players continue to progress through the VFC system—8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, and 18U—with consistent coaching, structured practices, and a focus on skill development, teamwork, and growth on and off the ice.
READY TO TRY OUT FOR VFC HOCKEY?
GENERAL INFOrmation
oaks center ice programs
Oaks Center Ice is home to two premier youth hockey programs—the Valley Forge Colonials (Tier II) and the Valley Forge Minutemen (Tier I). Together, these programs provide a complete player pathway for all skill levels, from beginner through elite competition.
Both programs share the same home rink and player development philosophy, but each operates independently with its own staff, teams, and approach to competition.
hockey season timing
The hockey season typically runs from September through March, with tryouts held each spring for the following season. Teams practice two to three times per week and play games on weekends, both at Oaks Center Ice and other local rinks.
Off-season clinics and skill sessions are also offered year-round, giving players opportunities to continue improving their skating, puck control, and overall hockey IQ.
Team structure
VFC follows USA Hockey’s age-based team divisions, with multiple teams at most levels to support a range of skill and experience. Teams are organized by birth year, not current age or grade level. This ensures players develop and compete alongside others at a similar stage of growth.
BIRTH
YEARS
LEVEL NAME
FORMAT /
NOTES
8U
2017 & younger
Mites
Half-ice games
focused on skill
development and fun.
2025-2016
Full-ice play begins; emphasis on teamwork and fundamentals.
Peewees
Building game awareness and position play.
14U
2011-2012
Bantams
Introduction to body contact (per USA Hockey rules); faster pace of play.
16U
2009-2010
Midgets
High-intensity training, advanced systems, and regional competition.
18U
2007-2008
Midgets
player safety
Information for Goalies
Goalies play an essential role in every VFC team. At the younger levels, players are encouraged to try the position before committing long term—shared goalie equipment is available through the Mites (8U) program. As players progress, goalie-specific instruction and clinics are offered throughout the year to help them develop confidence and technique.
VFC also offers exclusive discounts for full-time goalies within the program.
If your player is interested in playing goalie full-time, please email vfcassist@yahoo.com for more information.
Girls Hockey
VFC youth teams are currently co-ed, and girls are encouraged to participate at all levels.
For additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at vfcassist@yahoo.com.
INTERESTED IN SIGNING UP?
FAQs
When should my child start hockey?
There’s no “perfect” age to start. Many players begin skating around ages 5–6, but plenty start later and catch up quickly. The key is to focus on building strong skating skills first—programs like Learn to Skate and Flyers Learn to Play are great starting points for any age.
Can my child start in the middle of a season?
Yes. Programs like Learn to Skate, Flyers Learn to Play, and CHIP run several sessions throughout the year, so families can join when it fits their schedule. Travel teams are formed through spring tryouts, but developmental programs are open for registration year-round.
My child is nervous about tryouts — what should we expect?
Tryouts are structured sessions where players are evaluated on skating, skills, and game play. Coaches focus on effort, attitude, and readiness for the next level—not perfection.
What is the difference between Tier I and Tier II hockey?
Tier I (AAA) and Tier II (AA/A/B) are both USA Hockey–sanctioned levels of youth travel hockey.
- Tier I (AAA), like the Valley Forge Minutemen, is the highest level of competition and is geared toward elite players pursuing top-level play.
- Tier II (AA/A/B), like the Valley Forge Colonials, offers strong competition, structured development, and balanced travel for players of all skill levels.
Both follow USA Hockey guidelines and provide excellent coaching and competition—the right fit depends on each player’s goals and experience.
How much time does hockey take each week?
During the season (September–March), most VFC teams practice two to three times per week and play one or two weekend games. Teams may also participate in a few tournaments or showcases each year, and the time commitment for those varies by team. Younger teams typically travel within an hour of Oaks Center Ice; older teams may travel farther depending on their league schedule.
How much travel is involved?
Most VFC teams play the majority of their games within an hour of Oaks Center Ice. Some older or higher-level teams may travel regionally for showcases or tournaments. Schedules are posted well in advance so families can plan ahead.
How much does hockey cost per year?
Annual costs vary by age level and team. Travel hockey registration typically ranges from $1,500–$4,000 per season, depending on the number of practices, games, and tournaments. Families should also plan for equipment, uniforms, and travel expenses.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Payment plans are available for all travel programs, and VFC offers discounts for full-time goalies. For any other tuition or payment questions, please feel free to email vfcassist@yahoo.com for more details.
What equipment does my player need to start—and where do I buy it?
All players must have full hockey gear, including:
Helmet with cage • Mouthguard • Neck guard • Shoulder pads • Elbow pads • Gloves • Pants • Shin guards • Hockey socks • Stick • Skates • Protective cup or pelvic protector
Equipment can be purchased at the Oaks Pro Shop, Pro Hockey, or Play It Again Sports. Families enrolled in Flyers Learn to Play receive a full starter set of equipment included with registration.
What kind of commitment is expected from parents?
Parent involvement varies by team, but each team has a volunteer manager who helps with logistics, and families may be asked to assist with scorekeeping or timekeeping during home games. There are no fundraising or volunteer requirements beyond that.
In addition, just as we ask players to show sportsmanship and respect, we expect the same from our parents — toward coaches, players, officials, and one another.
What happens if my child doesn’t make a team?
If your player isn’t quite ready for travel hockey, there are always next steps. Programs like CHIP, clinics, and skills sessions run throughout the year to help players continue improving and prepare for the following season. Our coaches and staff are happy to guide families toward the right fit.
Have questions or need more info?
Reach out so we can help!