North Okanagan Minor Hockey Association NOMHA Knights

New Player Information

New to hockey?

Welcome to North Okanagan Minor Hockey Association (NOMHA)!

We’re excited your family is considering joining our hockey community. Whether your child is just learning to skate or ready to try their first team sport, we’re here to help make it a positive, fun experience.

This page answers common questions from new families and points you toward helpful resources on our website.

What age can my child start playing?

Kids can start playing hockey with NOMHA as early as age four. Visit the Age Divisions page for a breakdown of age groups.

When is hockey season and registration?

Registration for minor hockey opens in May-June, with teams forming in September-October. The on-ice season typically runs from September through March. Visit the Registration page to learn more about dates and deadlines.

How do I register my child?

You can register in a NOMHA Hockey Program online through our Registration page. Annual registration typically occurs from May 15th through to June 30th. If you’re hoping to register after June 30th, please contact our Association Registrar (register@nomha.com) to be added to the waitlist.

What do I need to do before I register my child?

Each new player needs to be registered with Hockey Canada and receive a Hockey Canada Registry ID Number (HCR ID) before player registration with an officially-sanctioned minor hockey association can take place.

To register your child with Hockey Canada and have their HCR ID generated, please send the following information to NOMHA’s Registrar (register@nomha.com):

  1. Players information:
    • First name, last name, and birthdate
    • Email address, phone number
    • Whether the player identifies as Indigenous, and if so which group?
    • Citizenship, ethnicity
    • The year the player moved into their residence
  2. Copy of players Birth Certificate
  3. Copy of players Health Card (Front and Back)
  4. Proof of Address (Parent Drivers Licence w/Address, Utility bill, Bill of sale, Lease or Rental Agreement)

NOMHA will submit this information to Hockey Canada to generate the player’s HCR ID nuber. Our NOMHA Registrar will provide your child’s HCR ID to you, and then you can complete NOMHA’s online registration process.

What equipment does my child need?

Ice hockey players must wear a full set of protective equipment. Some items, like helmets and neck guards, must meet Hockey Canada safety standards.

Here’s a basic list of hockey gear, listed in the general order it’s put on:

  • Thin base layer (worn under gear)
  • Jock/Jill pelvic protector shorts
  • Shin guards
  • Hockey socks
  • Hockey pants
  • Skates
  • Neck guard (BNQ-certified)
  • Shoulder pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Hockey jersey
  • Mouthguard
  • Helmet with full face cage (CSA-certified)
  • Gloves
  • Stick with tape
  • Water bottle

You’ll also need a gear bag to hold all the hockey gear. Optional extras include skate guards, repair tools, extra laces, a puck, a small skate towel, and hair accessories.

Where do practices and games take place?

NOMHA teams practice and play at two local arenas:

  • Sunbelt Rentals Sports Centre – Armstrong
  • John Pritchard Memorial Sports Complex – Enderby

Visit the Hockey Rink Locations page for directions and info.

How often are practices and games?

For younger age groups (up until about age 10), expect 1–2 practices per week and occasional games. Older teams may have 2–3 ice times per week, including practices and games. Time commitment information by age group is available on the Hockey Programs page.

Team schedules are posted by in TeamSnap by each team’s Manager once teams are formed. Check the Schedule page for more info.

How much does it cost?

Fees vary by age group and team level. Typically, younger age divisions have a lower cost because they use less ice time. Our Registration page will direct you to the most up-to-date pricing. Community Financial Assistance is available for families who qualify.

Can parents volunteer?

Yes — NOMHA is run by volunteers!

Each team depends on parent volunteers to function during the season. The following roles are usually needed for every team:

If you’d like to help out, you can indicate your preferred volunteer role when you register in May-June. You can also talk to your team’s Head Coach in September to see where help is needed.

Still have questions?

You can reach us through the Contact page, or talk to your Coach or Team Manager at your first practice. We’re here to help your family feel at home in NOMHA!