FAQ

How does Colorado High School hockey work?

Colorado high school hockey offers two competitive seasons each year. In the fall, teams compete in the Colorado Prep Hockey League (CPHL) from August through November, allowing programs to practice and play games earlier in the school year. In the winter, teams transition to the Colorado High School Athletic Association (CHSAA) season, which runs from November through early March and follows strict state-mandated start and end dates. The creation of CPHL gives Colorado high school teams valuable development and competition opportunities before the official CHSAA season begins. Because schools do not own ice rinks, teams practice and play at community rinks, often traveling and skating during evenings or early mornings. While schools provide oversight, families usually share in costs, with programs supported by booster clubs, fundraising, and sponsorships.

Will I play as many games as with Club hockey?

During the 2025–26 season, both Junior Varsity and Varsity teams will play a robust schedule. In the fall season, each team will compete in approximately 20–25 games, including 1-2 out of state tournaments.  In the winter season, Varsity will play 19 games and JV will play 15 games. In total, players can expect to participate in 35–40 games over the course of the full high school hockey season, providing consistent competition and valuable development opportunities throughout the year.

Will the coaching be as good as club hockey?

High school hockey coaching is different from club hockey, but it is highly valuable in its own way. Our coaching staff is experienced, USA Hockey–certified, and committed to player development, safety, and team culture. We strongly believe high school hockey provides a well-rounded experience, encouraging multi-sport participation, academic success, strong attendance at both school and team activities, proper behavior on and off the ice, and pride in representing and promoting your school community through sports. While club hockey often focuses on year-round training, high school hockey emphasizes leadership, accountability, and competing for something bigger than yourself.

Is it true that AAA hockey is always better for player development than high school hockey?

Not necessarily. AAA hockey can be excellent for players pursuing elite, year-round training and higher-level exposure, but it isn’t the best or only path for every athlete. High school hockey offers meaningful development in different ways, through leadership roles, game experience, accountability, and playing in high-pressure situations for your school. Many players benefit most from a combination of AAA or club hockey alongside high school hockey, gaining both advanced skill development and the life skills that come from representing their school, balancing academics, and being part of a community.

Where are games and practices?

Practices and home games are held at Big Bear Ice Arena. Away games are played at rinks throughout the surrounding cities in the Denver metro area and across Colorado.

What is the cost of high school hockey at Wolves A.H.C. and Grandview High School hockey?

Fees for the 2026–27 season are estimated at approximately $3,700 per player for the fall CPHL season and $1,500–$1,800 for the winter CHSAA season. One-time equipment packages for incoming players typically range from $750–$1,000. While ice costs at our home rink continue to rise, our coaching staff, Booster Club, parents, and players are committed to fundraising efforts throughout the year to help offset team expenses whenever possible. All fees are estimated and subject to change based on final ice costs, league requirements, and other unforeseen expenses.