Should Girls Play Hockey With Boys? A Guide For Parents

At the Girls & Women’s Hockey Academy, we often hear this important question from parents: "Should my daughter play hockey with boys or stick with an all-girls team?"

The answer? It depends.

Every athlete is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all path. USA Hockey offers two main classifications:

• Girls classification – for females only

• Youth classification – open to both boys and girls

This structure exists for a reason: to give girls the power of choice. So, how do you decide which option is best for your daughter? Let’s break it down.

Start with the Most Important Voice: Your Daughter’s

Before anything else, ask her what she wants. Don’t assume. Talk to her. Listen. Does she feel more comfortable on a girls' team? Or is she eager for the competition and dynamic of a co-ed (youth) team?

Key Questions to Help Guide Your Decision

Consider the following when deciding between youth or girls hockey:

• Where will she thrive most – socially and athletically?

• Which program offers stronger coaching and long-term development?

• Does the program follow USA Hockey’s American Development Model (ADM)? ADM-based programs deliver age-specific, skill-focused training that builds long-term success.

• How much individual skill development is prioritized?

• What’s the practice-to-game ratio?

• Will she be consistently challenged while still enjoying the game?

• Is the level of competition and playing time right for her current ability?

• Do coaches understand key windows of physical and mental development?

• Is age-appropriate strength and conditioning part of the program?

• How well do coaches communicate and motivate?

• Are there leadership or mentoring opportunities on and off the ice?

• Which option offers better overall development for your investment?

• How much travel is involved?

• Is the program focused on player growth, or is it more about trophies and rankings?

• If she’s playing at 14U or above, is she concerned about body checking?If checking becomes a source of stress, it might be time to explore girls hockey.

Potential Benefits of Playing Girls Hockey

• Female peer support – Hockey is more than a sport; it’s a social environment. Many girls find it more fun and empowering to compete alongside other girls.

• Tailored programming – All-girls clubs increasingly offer age-appropriate, skill-specific training that meets the unique needs of female athletes.

• Female coaching and mentorship – Girls teams often bring in female coaches and older players (16U or 19U) as student assistants. These role models can have a lasting impact.

• Exposure to the girls’ game – Playing with and against other girls builds familiarity with the level and style of play they'll encounter at higher levels like high school, college, and beyond.

Potential Benefits of Playing Youth Hockey

• Access to age-appropriate teams – In some regions, there just aren’t enough girls to form teams at every age level. Youth hockey can provide a better developmental fit.

• Closer to home – Youth programs are often more geographically accessible, meaning less time commuting and more time developing at the rink.

• Deeper talent pools – More players often mean faster-paced games and practices. This can sharpen skills and raise the overall level of play.

• No physiological disadvantage (for younger players) – Up to around age 12, there are minimal differences in strength and size between boys and girls. In fact, girls often hit puberty earlier and may even be stronger than their male peers during those years.

Final Thoughts

There’s no "right" answer—only what’s right for your daughter.

Whether she finds her stride in youth hockey or flourishes on a girls team, the most important thing is that she’s learning, developing, having fun, and growing in confidence—on and off the ice.

At the Girls & Women’s Hockey Academy, we support every path that helps girls love the game and reach their full potential. If you’re still unsure, reach out. We’re here to help you navigate the journey, every stride of the way.

Want to explore local options or talk to a coach? Contact us today and let’s talk about what’s best for your player.