Kankakee Coyotes

The Coyotes offer teams at four age levels, making it a great league for young players to start their hockey journey and continue developing as they grow. The league typically includes the following age divisions:

• Mite (8U)
• Squirt (10U)
• Peewee (12U)
• Bantam (14U)

The Coyotes' season runs from September through mid March, aligning with the traditional fall and winter hockey calendar. Teams begin practices in early September, with regular season games starting in early October. The schedule includes weekly games, occasional tournaments, and playoff rounds that take place toward the end of the season. Exact dates may vary slightly from year to year, but families can expect a full, structured season of competitive and developmental play throughout these months.

The Kankakee Coyotes play their home games at Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena in Kankakee, IL. Away games take place at rinks used by other league teams in the Chicagoland area, giving players the opportunity to compete at different venues across the region.

Coyotes teams typically practice 2 to 3 times per week, depending on the age group and level of play. Practices are held at Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena and focus on building core skills, team strategies, and game readiness. Our coaching staff emphasizes player development through structured drills, small-area games, and situational training. Practices are designed to be both challenging and fun, helping players grow individually while building team chemistry throughout the season.

NWHL games are typically played on weekends, with most games scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays. Occasionally, teams may have a Friday evening or holiday game, depending on rink availability and league scheduling. 

Each Kankakee Coyotes player is required to have a full home and away jersey set, along with matching socks. Jerseys feature the official Coyotes colors, player’s last name, and number. Jerseys are available for purchase during registration, making it easy for families to get everything needed for the season. Returning players can reuse their jerseys if they still fit and are in good condition.

In addition to registration fees, families should be aware of a few potential extra costs throughout the season. These may include:

• Tournament Fees – Some teams may participate in optional or out-of-town tournaments that may carry an additional cost.
• Travel Expenses – Families are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meals during away games or tournaments.
• Team Activities – Occasional team-building events, photos, or end-of-season parties may have small fees.
• Equipment Replacement – Players are expected to maintain proper gear; replacement costs vary based on need and growth.

We strive to keep costs transparent and manageable while offering a high-quality hockey experience for all players.

In addition to team uniforms, all players must have USA Hockey-approved equipment, including a helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, hockey pants, shin guards, skates, neck guard and a stick. Goaltenders must have full goalie gear. Proper equipment ensures safety and helps players perform their best on the ice.