Play up/down

[InigoMontoya]

There have been many discussions about if/when it is a good idea for an athlete to petition to play up at an older age classification than their birth date would put them - playing with classmates is the most universally excepted reason, but some have also reached agreement regarding ability, numbers, etc.

If/when should a child petition to play down, at a lower age level than the birth date might otherwise allow?

[Nevertoomuchhockey]

There have been many discussions about if/when it is a good idea for an athlete to petition to play up at an older age classification than their birth date would put them - playing with classmates is the most universally excepted reason, but some have also reached agreement regarding ability, numbers, etc.

If/when should a child petition to play down, at a lower age level than the birth date might otherwise allow?

Pretty sure that is never allowed or considered, both under MN hockey and the MSHSL.

[dlow]

My son had a kid play down on his squirt team about 7 years back. The kid has a handicap. He 2 years older I believe and was bigger but it worked out just fine, no problems.

I would think new players at the peewee and bantam ages would be considered good candidates to play down.

[old goalie85]

Yes you can. Need a doctor written statement.

[Nevertoomuchhockey]

Yes you can. Need a doctor written statement.

I'm glad to hear that. There is enough exclusivity in this sport! Thanks for sharing that.

[InigoMontoya]

Yes you can. Need a doctor written statement.

Stating what?

[elliott70]

Yes you can. Need a doctor written statement.

Stating what?

The player must have a sound medical reason for playing down.
In 25 years of involvement in this area I have seen 4 play-downs given by USAH (its USAH not MH decision). 3 of the 4 involved cancer, the 4th was another severe medical condition (do not remember exactly what it was).