MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of SDAHC is to develop the skills, sportsmanship and leadership that are commensurate with the game, as well as to develop the highest possible caliber of player.

CORE VALUES

• SPORTSMANSHIP – have a sense of fair play; be humble in victory and gracious in defeat, show friendship with teammates and opponents.
• RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL – treat all others as you expect to be treated.
• INTEGRITY - foster honesty and fair play beyond the strict interpretation of the rules and regulations of the game.
• PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE – at both the individual and team level, players should perform each aspect of the game to the highest level of his/her ability.
• ENJOYMENT – the hockey experience should be fun, satisfying and rewarding.
• LOYALTY - we aspire to teach loyalty to the ideals and to fellow members of the sport of hockey.
• TEAMWORK - we value the strength of learning to work together

PHILOSOPHY OF YOUTH HOCKEY
The mission is to provide an improved grassroots foundation for the growth and development of USA Hockey, designing programs aimed at increasing participation, improving skills and offering a responsible environment for the conduct of youth hockey. To achieve these ends, the SDAHC adopts the USA Hockey Model Program Guidelines which dictate:

• A safe and healthy environment for all.
• An opportunity for all new players who wish to play hockey.
• Fair and equal opportunity for all to participate in our sport.
• An opportunity to learn the basic skills without an over-emphasis on winning.
• A philosophy which attempts to reduce the number who become disenchanted.
• An opportunity for those who wish to advance in a more competitive environment.
• Qualified adult leadership.

Hockey Categories:

• A/B/BB or Recreational - the backbone of youth hockey, recreational hockey encourages developmental play. Skill development and team concepts are stressed, rather than winning.
• AA or tier II - Well-qualified coaches teach higher-level skill development for players who have the desire and ability for a competitive experience. Balance of winning and sportsmanship is stressed, and travel for the competition should be reasonable. Team objectives include local, league, state and national championships.
• AAA or Tier I - A high level national program which draws from the very best players in the state. This is primarily for players who seek to advance to Junior A or college hockey.