Getting Started

Welcome to the Central Kentucky Hockey Association (CKHA), home of the Lexington Thoroughbreds! Whether your child is lacing up skates for the first time or has been playing hockey for years, we have a program designed to nurture their passion for the sport. Our comprehensive offerings follow the USA Hockey American Development Model (ADM), ensuring that every player receives age-appropriate instruction, competition, and community support.

At CKHA, we believe hockey is more than just a sport—it's about building character, fostering friendships, and developing skills that last a lifetime. Let's find the right program for your young athlete.

Ages 8 and under | Beginner to Intermediate*

Our 8U Mite Hockey program is the perfect entry point for young players to experience the excitement of hockey. Designed for children who have completed our Learn-to-Play sessions or have some skating experience, this program focuses on skill development, fun, and friendship in a supportive environment.

What to Expect:

- 2 practices per week

- Approximately 32-40 structured practices per season

- 6-8 weekend games at Lexington Ice Center

- Station-based practice plan with like-skilled player groupings

- Mix of cross-ice hockey, small-area games, and traditional house games

- Season runs late September through early March

Supplemental Travel Option:Players interested in higher-level competition can participate in our Travel Program with additional weekend games and jamborees (8-14 games per season).

Ages 9-15 | Intermediate Players

House League is the vital next step in your child's hockey journey. This program continues the skill development started in Mite hockey while introducing more structured team play, game strategy, and competitive experience. House League is designed for players who want to improve their skills in a competitive but inclusive environment—no tryouts required.

What to Expect:

- Open to all players (no tryouts)

- Ages 9-15 (exceptions available for older newer players)

- 1 practice per week with occasional additional sessions

- Approximately 8-12 games per season, all at home facility

- Season runs October through February

- Emphasis on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship

- Regular games provide consistent practice and competition

Perfect For: Players who want to continue learning hockey in a fun, team-oriented setting without the travel commitment or tryout pressure.

Ages 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U | Intermediate to Advanced

Ready to take your game to the next level? Travel Hockey offers competitive play against top youth teams in the region. Our teams compete in the Buckeye Travel Hockey League and Southern Youth Travel Hockey League, providing high-level competition, experienced coaching, and the opportunity to compete in tournaments.

What to Expect:

- Competitive selection through spring tryouts (typically April)

- 2-3 practices per week

- 8-14 games per season plus tournaments and special events

- Games at Lexington Ice Center and traveling to opponent facilities

- Season runs September through March

- Experienced coaches focused on player development and team success

- Comprehensive approach: on-ice training, off-ice conditioning, mental preparation

- Strong team community and lasting friendships

Best For: Dedicated players seeking higher-level competition and willing to commit to travel and additional training.

High School Age | Advanced

Our High School Hockey program represents the pinnacle of CKHA's youth hockey offerings. Featuring Varsity and JV teams, this program competes in the Kentucky High School Hockey League (KHSHL) and Cincinnati High School Hockey League (CHSHL). Many of our players grew up together in CKHA's youth programs and have developed deep bonds both on and off the ice.

What to Expect:

- Varsity and JV teams available

- Competitive selection through spring tryouts (typically April)

- 3 practices per week

- Games scheduled on weekends and select weeknights

- Season runs September through March with playoffs

- Participation in two prestigious high school leagues

- Elite-level coaching and comprehensive player development

- Close-knit team community with multi-year relationships

What Makes It Special: Our high school program emphasizes not just athletic excellence, but personal growth. We focus on preparing players for college hockey and instilling the values and skills they'll need for success in all areas of life.

Before your player takes the ice, they'll need properly fitted equipment. We provide resources to ensure you get the right gear:

USA Hockey Age Classifications - Understand which age division your child competes

Uniform Sizing Chart - Find the correct size for jerseys and practice gear

Equipment Rental Option - Rent equipment from us while you are learning how to play!

Pro Tip: Many families rent equipment during Learn to Play to see if hockey is the right fit. This is a great option!

Want to improve your skills outside of team practice? Skate & Shoots open hockey sessions at Lexington Ice Center are a great way for players to get extra ice time and work on individual skills.

Learn more about Skate & Shoots at Lexington Ice Center

1. Determine the Right Program – Review our program descriptions and age/skill levels above

2. Check Sizing & Equipment – Visit our sizing and equipment rental pages

3. Register – Visit our registration page to join or sign up for tryouts

4. Stay Informed – Join us for tryouts or opening practice dates (check Crossbar after registration for schedules)

Have questions? Don't hesitate to contact us for any questions you may have!

Welcome to the Thoroughbreds family!