About HYHA
History
Established in 1963, the Hamden Youth Hockey Association (HYHA) is a distinguished non-profit organization committed to providing developmental and competitive hockey opportunities for youth in Hamden and surrounding communities. As one of Connecticut's longest-standing and most successful youth hockey programs, HYHA is dedicated to advancing the sport of hockey throughout the state.
In its formative years, HYHA played a pivotal role in nurturing talent that contributed to the sustained success of Hamden High School's hockey program. Over time, HYHA has expanded its reach, welcoming players from across Connecticut. Today, our athletes go on to compete for teams nationwide, reflecting the program's growth and impact.
HYHA's Philosophy
At the Hamden Youth Hockey Association (HYHA), our mission centers on player development by fostering responsibility and accountability in our athletes' attitudes and efforts. We aim to cultivate a competitive spirit and strong character, equipping players with the values necessary to excel in hockey and thrive as successful adults who maintain a lifelong passion for the game.
A key objective at HYHA is to instill an appreciation for the incremental, day-to-day actions and game-to-game efforts that drive progress. We emphasize to our players that they are part of a larger community, contributing to a collective legacy that transcends individual or team achievements.
With a storied history of competitive success, HYHA values excellence and winning. However, our commitment extends beyond the rink. We strive to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed in all facets of life, leveraging the lessons learned through hockey to achieve personal and professional growth.
Development
At the Hamden Youth Hockey Association (HYHA), our primary focus is on player development through a structured goal-setting model designed to instill essential hockey habits. These habits are crafted to support players not only within a single season but throughout their long-term hockey journey as they advance to higher levels of competition. For instance, goals such as the "3 Foot Rule" teach critical fundamentals, like preventing transition attacks, that are highly valued by coaches and teams at the next stages of a player’s career, particularly for forwards.
By mastering these goals and developing strong hockey fundamentals, players gain the ability to make sound in-game decisions with greater ease. Those who internalize these habits instinctively know how to respond in various situations, fostering the confidence to innovate and evolve into well-rounded, skilled hockey players.
