If he isn't ready to step up in age at the same level he's currently playing at, keep him where he is. Playing a level down won't do him any good. Kids may be a little bigger and stronger (some won't be) but they will be a lot slower and less skilled.
My kid played U14 at 13, but he was physically the same size or bigger, and it actually was also a step up in quality of league, too. That made it easy. Your choice is harder.
My kid is in 8th grade and currently on a very good U14 team , have had no issues , loves it . Last year was on a crappy team , made the switch no problem .
Can you recommend a program that your u14 team plays against? I have not had a player play u14 before so I am not familiar with the various orgs and I really thought I would have another year to figure it out. Looking for good coaching/org and good competition. Also, should I be looking for full season or half season team. I am thinking full season.
Can you recommend a program that your u14 team plays against? I have not had a player play u14 before so I am not familiar with the various orgs and I really thought I would have another year to figure it out. Looking for good coaching/org and good competition. Also, should I be looking for full season or half season team. I am thinking full season.
Starting to wonder if this is genuine.
If he's going into 8th grade, why would you think half season would work? Where will he play after Thanksgiving?
It also seems like you've already made up your mind. Why would you think you are going to get good coaching and competition on a select team? Program's top teams get those things.
Have to wonder if you just want to be able to say your kid is so good he's "playing up." I've certainly met "those parents."
Negative.. It's legitimate. If he played 1/2 season then he would do plenty of skills during the winter. If he plays full season that would be fine too if the team was a good fit. I haven't made up my mind and have no interest in telling anyone my kid plays up. I am simply looking for somethig a little different than him playing against the same kids he's been playing against. He is also very strong and loves the physical play. Like I said, this is my first go around with that age group and don't know the particulars. Also pretty quiet at the rink and don't ask around a lot.