Enjoyment and recreational benefits are the major focus of new guidelines for youth hockey issued by the Board of Directors, USA Hockey. More than 80 percent of over 33,000 registered teams play in the age classifications 17 or Under, prompting the Youth Council of USA Hockey to emphasize the educational and recreational values of ice hockey.

USA Hockey recommended guidelines for youth hockey encourage a non-competitive environment in which children and youth can learn the basic skills without the distractions that are often associated with an over-emphasis on winning. Mastery of the fundamental skills and the fun of playing are essential to the development of a lifelong interest in hockey. Programs are conducted to accommodate the number of new players who wish to play hockey and to reduce the number who become disenchanted and drop out.