DYHA Overview

DYHA Overview

Welcome to Dubuque Youth Hockey!

Thank you for visiting Dubuque Youth Hockey Association! Whether you are an experienced hockey player or brand new to the sport - you are welcome here!

The DYHA program is open to ages 4-19 who live in and surrounding Dubuque, IA. The program starts with Little Saints and progresses to High School. Youngest to oldest levels the program consists of:

  • Little Saints 6U
  • Mite (Red/White/Black) / 8U
  • Squirts / 10U
  • PeeWees / 12U
  • Bantams / 14U
  • High School


DYHA also offers a house program for Mites, Squirts, Pee-Wee's & Bantams.

Learn to Skate

Learn to skate is ran by Dubuque Figure Skating- the perfect way to get your kids started on the ice. Learn to skate sessions are filled with fun and taught by professional instructors using curriculum developed by the Learn to Skate USA and endorsed by USA Hockey.

For more information on sessions available and to get your child signed up please visit their website below.

Little Saints (6U)

Little Saints (6U) is a program to get your skater introduced to the game of hockey. The season will typically run from November until the end of February. Practices are once a week at ImOn Arena in Dubuque.

Players in Little Saints will focus on skating, stick handling, shooting, playing games and most importantly- HAVING FUN!

There are no away games or tournaments in Little Saints, but there are home scrimmages throughout the season during your scheduled practice times.

Mite (Red/White/Black) (8U)

The Mite RWB (Red/White/Black) program is an introduction to travel hockey for 8U skaters in the Dubuque Youth Hockey Association (DYHA). Skaters are evaluated and placed on teams based on skill level:

  • Red – Advanced
  • White – Intermediate
  • Black – Beginner

Teams compete against similarly skilled opponents throughout the season, offering an ideal development path for young players.

Season Details:

  • Duration: October through early March
  • Practices: 1-2 times weekly at ImOn Arena in Dubuque (subject to ice availability)
  • Games: Typically Sundays as part of the Dane Co. Hockey League, played at rinks across Southern Wisconsin and occasionally at ImOn Arena
  • Tournaments: 3–4 tournaments during the winter season

This program provides a great opportunity for young players to develop their skills, experience team travel, and foster a love for the game in a fun, supportive environment.

Mite RWB follows the USA Hockey American Development Model. The ADM is a nationwide blueprint designed specifically to help kids reach their full potential. With cross-ice games and practices, skaters get more touches, raise the level of creativity and creates a positive environment for kids to learn and play. For more information on Mite RWB please click the link below.

Travel Squirts/Pee-Wees/Bantams

All DYHA Travel Teams, from Squirt (10U) through Bantam (14U), will compete under the name Dubuque Junior Saints.

The Travel Team program is designed for players ready to make a more serious commitment to hockey. These teams offer a higher level of competition, skill development, and exposure to regional play.

Program Overview:

  • Duration: Mid-September/Early October through early March
  • Game Play: Teams will compete in games both locally and across the Midwest & teams may compete in leagues based in the Midwest.
  • Team Formation: 1–3 teams per age division, depending on registration numbers

Estimated Number of Games per Season:

  • Squirt (10U): 25–35 games
  • Peewee (12U): 35–45 games
  • Bantam (14U): 40–50 games
  • Practices: 1-3 times weekly at ImOn Arena in Dubuque (subject to ice availability)


  • Travel players are responsible for purchasing their own jerseys, socks, and warm-ups.

This program is ideal for players who are passionate about hockey and looking to grow through a more competitive and structured environment.

High School

The Dubuque Saints are a club high school hockey team playing in the Midwest High School Hockey League (MHSHL). The Saints offer a JV & Varsity level teams. For more information, please visit the website below.

House (Recreational) Program Mite (8U) & Upper House (9-14)

Mite (8U) and Upperhouse (ages 9-14) are recreational hockey leagues designed for players who want to learn and enjoy the game in a relaxed and supportive environment. These programs are perfect for developing skills and building a love for the sport—without the pressure of competition.

Season Duration: November through the end of February

Practice Schedule: Once per week at ImOn Arena in Dubuque

Games: Approximately 8–10 games, with balanced teams to ensure fair and fun play

DYHA will provide jerseys for all players enrolled in the house league programs.

Little Blackhawks

Get in the game with the Little Blackhawks Learn to Play program!

The Little Blackhawks program is a fun and safe introduction to hockey for children ages 4–9 who are trying the sport for the first time. Developed by the NHL and NHLPA, this program teaches the fundamentals of hockey—like skating, passing, and stick-handling—while also building character, teamwork, and respect. Each participant receives a full set of equipment and age-appropriate instruction from certified coaches.

Eligible players can join the Little Blackhawks program at ImOn Arena, which includes 6–8 weeks of lessons led by local coaches. It's the perfect next step for young players looking to continue their hockey journey.

Note: A Learn to Skate program is strongly recommended before registering.

Eligibility: First-time players only; prior team experience or participation in Little Blackhawks makes a child ineligible.


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