about us

The Jr. Griffins 6U & 8U hockey teams started in the 2023-24 season.  What began as a group of 13 players has now grown to nearly 50 players annually across three teams!  We aim to be a program that provides children with an enjoyable experience while learning new skills and positive character development through the game of ice hockey.  We want to see kids, families and hockey thrive in the Genesee County and surrounding areas for years to come!

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WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT?

Michigan youth hockey has taken a hit.  From 2008-2025 Michigan has seen a decline from 34,614 participants (2008) to 24,391 participants (2025) which is a difference of -10,223.  Why the 30% drop off?  Sure, ice time, gear, and travel costs play a role. But the bigger issue? The fun is fading. “Elite” has replaced joy, and families are pressured into pricey programs with promises of future stardom. Truth is, there’s no such thing as an elite 6U or 8U player, just kids who deserve to love the game.

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We’re flipping the script. Our goal isn’t to build the most talented 8-year-old, it’s to spark a passion so strong that by age 14, they’re ready to chase greatness on their own terms. Burnout is real, and it starts early when hockey becomes a grind instead of a game.

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We start with Ball Hockey in October at Flint’s Mott Park. No skates, no stress. Kids meet coaches, make friends, and build confidence before hitting the ice.

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We skip the expensive early-season indoor ice rentals and begin skating in mid-November, keeping costs low and spirits high.

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Our season runs almost 5 months. That’s plenty for young kids, and it leaves room for other sports and activities for kids to be involved in.

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We skate on Sunday evenings, freeing up weekends for travel, sibling activities, or just relaxing. In fact, several families join us because our schedule doesn’t clash with flag football.

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We’re not going to create 10,000 new players overnight, but we are trying to build a better local hockey experience. One that’s affordable, accessible, and rooted in pure love of the game. The game grows from the bottom up, not the top down!

 

You might be wondering...

Are we USA Hockey sanctioned?

Yes, we are USA Hockey sanctioned and rostered within the umbrella of Eastern Michigan Hockey Association (EMHA).

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Do we play games?

Yes, we play games a couple times a month – typically on Sunday evenings.  Occasionally, The Barn hosts Jamborees we’ll participate in too!

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Who are your coaches?

All of our on-ice coaches are registered with USA Hockey, Background Checked, SafeSport and completed the 6U/8U Development Module.  Many also have completed their Level 1 C.E.P. through USA Hockey.

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What do you teach?

We wholeheartedly believe in USA Hockey’s American Development Model (ADM) and it is the guiding principles of everything we do.

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Does my player need to be able to skate before they join?

It’s recommended they have some experience skating prior but it is not required.  Most indoor programs have a Learn To Skate or Learn To Play program that predicates 6U & 8U Hockey.  However, our goal is not to take existing indoor hockey players and bring them outdoors.  We want to create new hockey players!

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Can my player play on their current team and the Junior Griffins at the same time?

No, USA Hockey does not allow double rostering.  Similarly, we do not allow AAU players to dual roster with us.

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Can my 5 or 6 year old play on the 8U team?

No, we believe kids should play with their appropriate age level, regardless of experience or ability.  As a middle ground, we hold optional skill sessions twice a month where 6U players get to skate with 8U players.

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Are there a lot of away games?

Hardly any.  Since we have Sunday evening ice and most programs want to give their players the outdoor rink experience, we almost always host games.  If we do play at an indoor rink it’s typically within 30 minute radius of The Barn.