6U - AGE GROUPS

• New formation of age category
• Age appropriate scheduling
• Program appropriate price point

8U - AGE GROUPS

• New half-ice game format

DSMHL PROGRAMMING

• New advanced practice development model
• Implementing a combination of station based player development with a team based coach led practice
• These 2 formats will alternate week to week

Beginning in the 2024-25 season, the DSMHL launched the 8U Premier Initiative program to provide an advanced development opportunity for those players at the 8U age level who were looking for a more robust hockey option. This rink-based program is sanctioned by USA Hockey and requires a waiver to be submitted each season by the Texas Amateur Hockey Association (TAHA) on behalf of the DSMHL to participate in this program. This program is limited to 40 players per year.

How Does It Work?

Following DSMHL evaluations each year, those players who have demonstrated a skill level that is appropriate for this level of training will be contacted by the DSMHL with an offer to attend an 8U Premier evaluation session. Following this evaluation, those 8U players who are ready for the next level of competition will be offered an opportunity to join the 8U Premier Initiative program which will operate out of the Children’s Health StarCenter – Valley Ranch.

The DSMHL has contracted with the Dallas Stars Elite, the only Tier 1 Travel program in the state of Texas and one of the top developmental programs in the country, to operate the 8U Premier Initiative. The Dallas Stars Elite will operate the evaluation program each fall as well as hold a summer camp each year for those players who will be eligible the following season.

There is an increased fee for those choosing to participate in the 8U Premier Initiative that covers paid coaching staff, expanded practice sessions, off-ice training, and an enhanced equipment package. The DSMHL will collect all fees, but all fees are set by the Dallas Stars Elite who operate the program. Each 8U Premier team will compete within the DSMHL and will face both DSMHL and Tier II 10U teams to create more balanced/competitive outcomes. 8U Premier teams will play 10 games of the 20-game schedule on full-ice during the second half of the season.

This is only offered as an expanded option for those players who would like to participate. There is no requirement for players selected to join the 8U Premier Initiative. If players choose not to participate, they will remain within the normal DSMHL structure and be assigned to a team at their local facility.

Details Below:

Ice Schedule

• 2 weekday practices and 2 weekend sessions at Valley Ranch (4 sessions/week).
• Off-Ice Training: 1 session with the Stars Elite off-ice trainer + 1 shooting room session per week.

Weekly Schedule (Valley Ranch)

• Monday: 5:15–6:15 PM – On-ice practice, followed by off-ice training
• Thursday: 5:15–6:15 PM – On-ice practice, followed by shooting room session
• Saturday: 4:00–5:15 PM – On-ice practice
• Sunday: 7:30–9:00 AM – Game

*Specific program details will be discussed at the 8U Premier invitation skate on August 19th.

Season Pricing: $4,950
Season Duration: September 2025 – March 2026

Local Games: ADM & USA Hockey compliant

Tournaments: TBD

Head Coach: Trevor Hanas – [email protected] | (469) 358-4077