KCYHA Announces Unified Travel Hockey Program

At the Kansas City Youth Hockey Association (KCYHA), we believe hockey is more than a sport—it is a shared journey that connects players, coaches, and families in pursuit of excellence, camaraderie, and lifelong memories. In keeping with this vision, the KCYHA Board of Directors is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the evolution of travel hockey across our Association.

Beginning with the 2025–2026 fall season, KCYHA will move from rink‑based travel teams to a single, Unified Travel program for the Squirt, Peewee, and Bantam levels. Under this new model, players from every KCYHA club will have equal opportunity to try out and earn roster spots under one team name. Practices will occur at AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk and the Kansas City Ice Center (KCIC), ensuring shared accessibility for our entire community.

Why This Change?
We have spent months collaborating with member clubs, Hockey Directors, coaches, and families to develop a unified approach. By coming together, we can:

• Enhance Player Development: Deliver consistent, high‑caliber coaching and resources to help each athlete reach their full potential.
• Expand Competitive Opportunities: By pooling talent from every KCYHA club, we will field deeper, more balanced rosters that meet USA Hockey’s Tier II/AA—and, over time, Tier I/AAA—standards, positioning our teams to compete successfully on the premier regional and national stages.
• Provide a Clear Path Forward: Position KCYHA athletes for the higher tiers of hockey emerging in Kansas City, creating a stronger pipeline for aspiring players.
• Select Teams Remain an Option: For those who prefer the current format, club‑based Select teams will continue to operate. KCYHA will offer these teams more flexibility to participate in tournaments beyond the traditional “Select” three‑weekend schedule.

Next Steps:

• Town Halls: KCYHA and each member club will host Town Hall meetings in the coming weeks to outline program details and answer questions.
• Annual Meeting: A full presentation and open forum will occur at our Annual Meeting on Monday, May 19, at 6:00 p.m. in the Scheels Training Room.
• Logistics and Tryouts: Specific tryout dates and additional details will be released in the coming weeks, ensuring everyone has ample time to prepare.

The KCYHA Board extends its sincere gratitude to our Hockey Directors—Simon Watson, Dean Nelson, Taylor Kennedy, and Jared Brandt—as well as Rick Murcek and DJ Wiles for their leadership and the groundwork they have already put in place. Their dedication has been instrumental in bringing us to this pivotal moment.

Above all, KCYHA remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering exceptional youth hockey experiences—rooted in teamwork, sportsmanship, character, and player development. We promise to focus on the players, their families, and the powerful memories built on and off the ice.

We look forward to working with our entire community to ensure a smooth transition and a successful inaugural season under the Unified Travel hockey program.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Kansas City Youth Hockey Association