The San Jose Jr. Sharks are committed to long-term player development—not just short-term results. We offer a structured path with teams at multiple levels, each tailored to meet the diverse goals and interests of our members. Our program includes competitive teams for Youth (ages 9–18) and Girls (ages 8–19).

Development Pathways

Our Travel Hockey (A/BB/B) and Tier II “AA” (Youth & Girls) teams provide a well-rounded experience focused on both skill development and competition. Players benefit from a robust practice model and the chance to compete in a high-caliber league across Northern California. Our priority is to equip players with the tools and foundation to reach their individual goals.

At the highest level, our Tier I “AAA” (Youth & Girls) teams offer elite training and competition, preparing athletes to perform at State, Regional, and National levels. These teams are designed for players who aspire to play junior, collegiate, or professional hockey.

Mission

The Jr. Sharks Hockey Program is dedicated to fostering a positive, safe environment where players grow as both athletes and individuals. Through hockey, we teach values like discipline, resilience, and leadership—building not just strong players, but strong people.

Vision

To be the driving force in hockey development throughout Northern California by delivering world-class coaching, top-tier resources, and a clear path for players to achieve their highest potential.

Program Costs

The Jr. Sharks are committed to financial transparency. Player costs are structured around three areas: dues, soft goods, and travel. Our goal is for season dues to cover all standard team expenses—including tournament fees, coaches’ travel, and off-ice training facilities—so families aren’t burdened with unexpected mid-season costs. Specific team pricing will be shared at tryouts. There are no “cash calls” for any club-approved games, events, or tournaments.

The Jr. Sharks have made a commitment to each individual’s skill development. The Jr. Sharks strive to accomplish this by:

1. Follow USA Hockey’s American Development Model and Long Term Athlete Development programs.
2. Hire and train competent coaches. Jr. Sharks coaches must apply each season. Once they have been hired, they must attend two club hosted coaching clinics. The preseason seminar lays out how the SJJS expectations of the coaches, and assures coaches follow the standard laid out in the Player Developmental Guide. 
3. Lay out the framework for success through the SJJS Policy Manual and SJJS Player Developmental Guide. 
4. Have scheduled goalie specific on-ice instruction.
5. Create a competitive environment. The SJJS tries to place individuals at the correct age, skill, and dedication level so that the player can compete against individuals similar to themselves.
6. Require that coaches give regular feedback to each player throughout the season.
7. Require teams to do age appropriate off-ice workouts that complying with USA Hockey’s Long Term Athlete Development program (LTAD). 14U through 18U teams will have recurring access to the Jr Sharks Strength & Conditioning staff and facilities. 10U & 12U teams are introduced to general athleticism and functional mechanics off-ice training that target LTAD.

"Our goal is long-term development, not short-term success."

The Jr. Sharks have several levels of play to meet the needs of hockey players. Tier I “AAA” teams are made up of highly skilled ice hockey players in northern California. Almost 60% of the Tier players live outside of the San Jose city limits, a fact that impacts our program’s structure. The mission of the Jr. Sharks Tier I “AAA” teams is to develop elite players capable of attaining their future hockey goals. The Jr. Sharks promote good character and sportsmanship, life skills that are beneficial to all.

For players who are not as interested in the travel investment or are beginning in competitive hockey, the Travel AA, A, and B team teams play in the NORCAL and CAHA leagues depending on the classification. Once again this year, we will not field a Mite travel team. An in-house Mite program will be hosted by Sharks Ice at San Jose. The Jr. Sharks intend to field Travel teams as shown below, although this is subject to change.

The San Jose Jr. Sharks Girls' Hockey teams meet the needs of competitive demands of female hockey players. The Jr. Sharks offer teams for all age and skill levels. Team designations will be determined based on the competitive skill level of the team.